Founder and Artistic Director

Margaret Gonzalez, a musician and educator from Venezuela, is a product of El Sistema. The founder of El Sistema, Maestro Jose Antonio Abreu believes in the transformative power of music in making positive and lasting changes in the lives of our children. Continuing the legacy of the founder, Margaret uses music as a vehicle for social change, traveling locally and internationally to share her passion and vision with other Sistema inspired programs.  

Margaret grew up in the capital city of Caracas in Venezuela, where she learned about the core values of El Sistema, and how it has the power to create social change. Through these life experiences, she developed a deep sense of being valued and how to confidently face the challenges of life's journey.  Margaret knows first-hand what a difference this can make in one's life, and with a profound passion for teaching, she is excited to share the same opportunities and experiences with the children of San Francisco.

Margaret earned a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance as well as a Minor in Violin and Piano from Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia where she was a student of violist Doris Lederer (Audubon Quartet).  Prior to her studies in the United States, she performed with the world-renowned Simon Bolivar Orchestra of Venezuela under Maestro Gustavo Dudamel. Additionally, she has worked with several professional chamber ensembles and symphonic orchestras in the United States, and continues to actively teach both children and adults on a variety of string instruments.