APJ

At APJ, we believe in the power of education, culture, and community to create lasting impact. Supporting projects that foster access to knowledge and artistic expression is at the core of our mission. This is why we are proud to renew our support for Beirut Chants El-Sistema, a program that provides free, high-quality music education to young musicians across Lebanon.

What is Beirut Chants El-Sistema?
Launched in 2022, Beirut Chants El-Sistema is the first program in Lebanon to implement the world-famous El-Sistema methodology, originally founded in Venezuela in 1975. The program was created with the belief that music is a powerful tool for social change, giving young people structure, discipline, and artistic excellence, while fostering a sense of unity and collaboration.

Beirut Chants El-Sistema is a free, inclusive music education program that serves young musicians from different regions and backgrounds. The program consists of an orchestra and a choir, following the El-Sistema methodology, which emphasizes group learning where advanced students help beginners progress. Students participate in weekly rehearsals, receive individual instruction for orchestra members, and perform in concerts across Lebanon. Beirut Chants El-Sistema provides free instruments, transportation, and meals, ensuring that young musicians have access to essential resources for their training.

Since its inception, the program has grown rapidly, with over 75 young musicians currently enrolled, participating in weekly rehearsals and performing across Lebanon. In just two years, over 14 concerts have been held in major cities and smaller communities, allowing students to share their talent with diverse audiences.

Why APJ supports Beirut Chants El-Sistema
At APJ, we recognize the transformative power of arts and culture in shaping the future of young generations. 

By supporting Beirut Chants El-Sistema, we are investing in:

- Expanding access to music education by increasing student participation from 75 to 100 musicians.

- Enhancing learning quality by recruiting two additional teachers to guide and mentor the students.

- Strengthening the orchestra by introducing new viola and double bass sections, each with five students and a dedicated instructor.

- Providing advanced instruction through one-on-one lessons for orchestra students and specialized coaching for the most promising choir members.

- Developing a wider musical repertoire, with a particular emphasis on classical music.

- Promoting artistic excellence and public engagement by supporting up to 10 concerts, including performances at the Beirut Chants Festival (Season 18).

This partnership aligns with APJ’s commitment to fostering education, social inclusion, and cultural development, ensuring that young people in Lebanon continue to have opportunities to learn, create, and thrive.

A lasting impact through music
Beirut Chants El-Sistema is more than a music program—it is a movement that empowers youth, strengthens communities, and demonstrates the unifying power of art and education. The program’s impact is already visible, with young musicians growing in skill and confidence, and their performances reaching new audiences across Lebanon.

©Beirut Chants El-Sistema

The Beirut Art Film Festival (BAFF) 2024 took place from November 25 to December 6, 2024, at the Leïla Turqui Amphitheater of the Oriental Library in Beirut. The Philippe Jabre Association (APJ) was an official partner of this event that brought together art and culture enthusiasts from around the world.

For its 10th edition, themed “Stop War”, 25 films were presented, along with an exhibition by Hady Zaccak on the cinematic history of Tripoli and conferences with directors, producers, and artists from various backgrounds.

“The 10th edition of the Beirut Art Film Festival (BAFF) will be held against all odds in a Lebanon ravaged by half a century of war,” said Alice Mogabgab, Artistic Director, as she introduced BAFF 2024, which had already been postponed. “We need to overcome fear and renew our trust in humankind, which is capable of things other than destruction and violence, such as producing art and culture or, in other words, producing beauty."

The APJ is proud to have supported this exceptional festival. The arts and cultural initiatives are important to maintain, particularly in times of difficulty. They play a crucial role in reconciliation, peace, and societal prosperity.

A big thank you to the organizers of BAFF for their commitment, all the other sponsors and supporters, and of course to the artists and participants who made this edition possible. Their passion for art and culture is an inspiration for all of us.

The academic year has come to an end (or almost) for our students around the world, supported by the APJ. This summer period is the perfect time to take stock:

The Association Philippe Jabre supported 259 young Lebanese, including 150 students enrolled in universities abroad and 109 in Lebanon.

Education is a priority for the APJ, and our mission is essential in enabling young people to pursue their studies, learn, build their future, and contribute positively to our society.

Every year, we support Lebanese students in their university studies at prestigious institutions.

Since our founding in 2001, we are proud to have supported 2,741 Lebanese students. Together, let’s continue investing in education and making a real difference in the lives of young people.

Congratulations to all the students who have successfully completed their year! APJ wishes you a wonderful summer!