Houston, Texas. — El Sistema Texas proudly celebrates the participation of five of its young musicians, Anna, Luna, Andrea, Nelly and Lucas, in the YOLA National Festival 2026. This national orchestral training program brings together young musicians from El Sistema-inspired programs and community organizations across the United States for more than a week of music-making and learning.

The students traveled to Los Angeles, California, where they took part in an intensive artistic training program with accomplished teachers, guest artists and renowned conductors. Their experience culminated in a performance at Walt Disney Concert Hall, one of the country’s leading concert venues.

A Community Built Through Music

The YOLA National Festival gives young musicians access to high-level orchestral training, promoting artistic and musical excellence through a community-centered experience. The program focuses on expanding opportunities for young people with limited resources and access to music education.

Participation is completely free for selected students, including travel, accommodation, meals and artistic programming. This support enables young musicians from different communities to take part in an exceptional musical learning experience.

For El Sistema Texas students, the festival offers an opportunity for artistic and personal growth, as well as the chance to share the stage and connect with young musicians from across the country.

“These experiences show what can happen when we create real opportunities for our children and young people. Seeing our students take part in an event of this scale fills us with pride and motivates us to keep opening new paths through music,” said Álvaro Carrillo, CEO and founder of El Sistema Texas.

Learning Beyond the Concert Hall

The participation of Anna, Luna, Andrea, Nelly and Lucas also reflects El Sistema Texas’s commitment to education that goes beyond musical skills. Discipline, teamwork, responsibility, leadership and confidence are fundamental to the learning process the organization develops with its students.

El Sistema Texas recognizes the dedication of these young musicians, the support of their families and the teachers who helped prepare them.

The organization continues working to expand access to national and international experiences that help children and young people strengthen their skills, discover new perspectives and realize their potential.

Music opens doors and creates opportunities to transform lives.