Schools in eMbalenhle get music programme
According to Cleopas Thwala, the organisation’s founder, they introduced the first musical instruments in Grade Two.
eMBALENHLE – The Ikamva Music Art Institute officially launched a school music development programme on November 10 at the Kgotso Hall in eMbalenhle.
The programme aims to introduce the use of musical instruments in schools. According to Cleopas Thwala, the organisation’s founder, they introduced the first musical instruments in Grade Two.
When these learners reach Grade Four, they can attend school music camp workshops to begin their second instruments, such as violin, brass or woodwind instruments.
“The organisation is accredited with the Royal School of Music in the UK, and the learners will receive internationally-accredited music certificates that will enable them to also teach music in any institution after writing their exams.”
When learners graduate from the Grade Seven programme, they must at least have completed their Grade Two music theory and Grade One practical.
“Their exam paper is prepared and marked from the UK, and through this programme, we are equipping the learners at an early age to realise their dream and to configure the learner memory. If the learner can memorise 120 music bars, it is a great achievement for them,” explained Thwala.
Thwala said music is also educational because it can help learners who struggle with their education or school subjects.
He said the programme was introduced to seven local schools – eMbalenhle, Buyani, Shapeve and Kinross primary schools.
“The programme also includes Basizeni Special School and the Kiriyatswana Secondary School in eMbalenhle. We also want to reach all local farm schools, but their challenge is a lack of resources.”
The Mpumalanga Department of Art, Sports and Recreation gave the programme several musical instruments.
