Teachers attend classical music master class

LOCAL scholars are set to benefit from a partnership which seeks to teach classical music to those from disadvantaged backgrounds in Ethekwini.

Fifty teachers have been trained to teach classical music to pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds in the eThekwini District, including those from Umlazi, Lamontville, Isipingo, Umbumbulu, Makhutha, Amanzimtoti, Umgababa and Durban Central.

The teachers attended a master class facilitated by the KwaZulu-Natal Arts and Culture Department in partnership with provincial education at the Durban Music School this week. Former UKZN, Stellenbosch and UCT music lecturer Dr Liezl Maret Jacobs was also part of the workshop. One of the outcomes was that a booklet be compiled to assist teachers.

The workshop, which is part of an ongoing series, identified challenges faced by teachers in this field and worked to find viable solutions to tackle them. A theoretical session took place, which included a discussion on the elements of music, notes, keys and rhythm. Schools’ policy documents on music lessons also formed part of the agenda. A practical session for both teachers and pupils was held at Sithokozise Primary School in Umlazi.

“The significance of having such programmes is that it benefits children from underprivileged areas, exposing them to different music genres in the art sector. These lessons will also be rolled out to other districts in the near future,” said department HOD, Sibongile Nzimande. For more information, call Lethukuthula Mtshali on 081-037-8321.