Music that feeds the soul

Kwathema – The music instructors of Mbira School of Music and Arts are helping to develop musical excellence even though they have no funding.

“We are doing everything from our hearts because we believe we are making a great impact in the lives of these children,” says Jabu M, the project’s manager.

Mbira, founded by legendary trumpeter Banzi Bangani, has produced many musical talents in Kwatsaduza since 2002.

“Learners in black communities do not have the option of doing music at school, while they are young.

“And this is unfortunate.”

He believes that the programme gives children the correct exposure to music so they can make informed decisions about their careers.

“The reason why people are changing courses or dropping out in varsity is largely because they do not get the correct information before they choose.”

Jabu M admits that the school has been running without any funding for a while now.

“It is tough to keep going because we don’t even have an office to work from.”

Nomhle Mbulali, instructor of piano and voice, Abrie Makula who specialises in guitar and Litha Motlala who teaches drums and percussion conduct workshops every other week.

He explains that the instructors move from school to school, as they are invited to teach interested learners.

Fourteen-year-old Prince Modiba, a grade nine learner from Phulong Secondary School, says he wants to be a drummer.

“I am grateful that they came to my school and I have found someone who can teach me how to play.”