Busking world record attempt draws a big crowd
A cheerful lively atmosphere dominated at the Northmead Square on Wednesday, June 11, when two local music groups participated in a Guinness World Record attempt for the most people busking simultaneously.
The John Wesley Community Centre’s marimba band performed alongside the Zama Montessori Band at this event.
In attempt to set the record, all participating musicians around the world had to busk for a minimum of five minutes, commencing at approximately 7pm (local time).
A total of 19 countries participated in the attempt.
The two local groups have been practising together for two weeks prior to the event, and delivered their combined beautiful melodies to the public, luring a big crowd, despite the cold temperatures.
Both of the centres are beneficiaries of the Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora, and outreaches of the Northfield Methodist Church.
The John Wesley Community Centre is an aftercare facility for orphaned and vulnerable children, situated in Etwatwa.
Their marimba band performed at the International Marimba Festival, in London, last year, and might be heading there again this year.
Centre manager Thoko Nkomo said she was very pleased with the young musicians.
“We just want to help them develop their talent so they can be better persons tomorrow.”
She added that this activity keeps them busy and out of trouble; off of the streets.
“My hope for them is to develop their talents to become performers for a living,” she said.
The Zama Montessori Centre is an underprivileged school based in Putfontein, founded by Bukelwa Selema, and aims to provide children between the ages of two and 12 with a reliable education — and music is part of the curriculum.
This band holds a diverse range of talent, including guitarists, flautist (recorder) and piano-players among their offerings.
Selema’s daughter, Ntombi, who often assists the centre, said the school receives a great deal of help from the Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora.
“We are so grateful for the help from Rotary,” she said.
“If it was not for them, the school would probably have already closed down; they help with everything.”
The proof material now has to be sent to Guinness World Records.
Whether the attempt was successful will then be confirmed in an undisclosed time
The event was supported by The Rotary Club of Benoni Aurora, the Northfield Methodist Church, Pizza Perfect, who provided food for the children, the Northmead Square and Zygo Technology Zone.
