Minister pays tribute to Benoni jazz legend
Well known jazz trumpeter and music teacher, Dr Ramakgobotla Johnny Mekoa, has died.
The Benoni resident was the founder and director of the Putfontein-based Gauteng Music Academy.
He died on July 3 at the age of 72 after a short illness.
Minister of Arts and Culture, Nathi Mthethwa, said the department is shocked and saddened by the sudden death of the trumpet player and head of the Gauteng Music Academy, Johnny Mekoa.
“The nation has lost one of its most talented and selfless musical sons,” said Mthethwa.
“Over the years, Mekoa has done so much to provide musical skills to talented youth and he has pursued this calling to teach and impart knowledge with both passion and perseverance.”
Mthethwa said his contribution to South African music has been immense.
“From optical dispenser to heading a music academy, he certainly had the vision to look ahead and address the needs of new times,” he said.
“He has been a life-affirming force in musical education.
“He was not only content to play an instrument and to bask in the light of his own creativity and glory, but also, and more so, he needed to share that light with others in the spirit of Ubuntu.
“He lived his life to the full, with conviction and true to the dictum: ‘Let a hundred flowers bloom, let a hundred schools of thought contend’,”said Mthethwa.
Also read: Late Actonville resident will be respected for his character
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