Empowering Communities Through Music

In 1999, the founders of what became Indigenous Values in Crescendo (IVC) initiated a groundbreaking musical project in the village of Kaunwaripa, located in Canaima National Park, Venezuela. This project aimed to provide constructive and enriching activities for children, fostering a positive community environment.

The initiative energized the village by giving children a platform to showcase their talents, resulting in the formation of the area’s first Indigenous choir. The project’s success expanded to include musical instruments, and within a few years, Kaunwaripa boasted some of the best musicians in the region, leading to a more engaged and harmonious community.

The impact extended beyond live performances, with seven music albums recorded and native music transcribed into written parts, preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. The project gained recognition from prestigious institutions, including Harvard University and El Sistema Nacional de Orquestas de Venezuela, earning the title of the first Indigenous Orchestra of Venezuela.

As new leaders emerged from within the community, the project expanded to other Indigenous villages, benefiting over 6,000 children. The founders transitioned leadership to well-prepared Indigenous leaders, ensuring the project’s sustainability. The project continued to thrive under the stewardship of these new leaders, maintaining its positive impact on the community.