Generation Orchestra (Orquestra Geração)

Inspired by the National System of Children and Youth Symphony Orchestras in Venezuela, of which the Simón Bolívar Orchestra is the most prominent example, the Generation Orchestra is a case in point of how music can be used to advance social inclusion.

Established in 2007, it is one of a group of actions carried out in Casal da Boba, Amadora as part of the Generation Project.
 
The orchestra is mostly made up of 10 to 13 years old pupils who learn to express themselves through music and to develop the self-confidence and knowledge they will need for growth encompassing balance and hope and moving away from exclusion and marginality.

Two more orchestras are currently being formed – in Vialonga, Vila Franca de Xira and in the Bairro da Mira neighbourhood in Amadora – in total more than 190 children. The launch of six more youth orchestras in the Lisbon Metropolitan Area is planned for the 2009/2010 school year (Sintra, Sesimbra, Barreiro, Loures and Oeiras plus one more in Amadora, this time in the Zambujal neighbourhood).