The EDP Foundation supports, since 1993, the Juvenile Symphonic Orchestra (JSO), the only orchestra for young people permanently functioning in Portugal, and the scholarship programs within the EDP/JSO Foundation.

The permanent crib for music

Founded in 1973, the Juvenile Symphonic Orchestra (JSO), the only orchestra for young people permanently working in Portugal, is recognized as a fundamental institution in the music-pedagogical Portuguese scene. Composed of around 80 elements, from several music schools, presents an ambitious repertoire, in constant renewal.

Beyond the formation component, in the specific area of symphonic music practice - which has contributed to the emergence of new values, many of which are the current musicians of the Portuguese orchestras -, the Orchestra has encouraged young musicians to exchange with other countries, whilst significantly contributing to the creation of new audiences.

The activity of the Juvenile Symphonic Orchestra (JSO), fits in the spirit of the EDP Foundation’s objectives, that favor the creation and cultural values, supporting and promoting the development of the national artistic production, bringing attention to the incentive of the formation of new artists and new audiences. With the main purpose of supporting the training and professionalization of musicians with high artistic potential, the EDP Foundation has been sponsoring, since 2007, the program for attribution of scholarships under the EDP/JSO Foundation.

From the scholarships to grants, five are destined to support, train, and professionalization of musicians from JSO with elevated artistic potential; the sixth is destined to stimulate professional appreciation and expertise in the music area, in light of a music post-graduation.

This support has allowed many youngsters to complete their academic training, which they otherwise wouldn’t have the ability to do so. The undeniable success is also patent in the fact that every scholarship student from EDP Foundation becomes a professional in their music career.

Forming musicians and audiences for symphonic music

The Juvenile Symphonic Orchestra (JSO) is the only orchestra for young people permanently functioning in Portugal and plays a fundamental role in the forming and professionalization of musicians in the symphonic music area. Since 1006, 195 musicians have benefited from scholarships, 15 of which were intended for post-graduation.

Besides the commitment to promoting the training of young musicians that aims at the practice of symphonic music, JSO has also the mission of forming new audiences.

Impact (results)