Inspiration through music and dance

The Alexandra Field Band comprising children from poor and disadvantaged backgrounds continues to inspire through its music and dance.

Formed in 2007 by philanthropist Ronnie Lubner and the the late Retha Cilliers, the band imparts life and coping skills to these children using music and dance to instil discipline, team work and conflict management.

The band again won a national trophy at last year’s National Bands Competition. Even at practice sessions, these often forgotten children always exhibit such deftness on horns, flutes, drums and other instruments to leave crowds savouring their melodies for a long time.

According to the band’s choreographer, Emanuel Rattle the band also exposes the children to music related careers.

“Two of them have practised with top bands in the USA,” he said. “One child is in third year studying for a diploma in music at North West University, Potchefstroom. “Two girls are in Grade 8 and 10 at the School of the Arts in Braamfontein through partial fee exemption. The band is appealing for sponsorship for the balance of their fees.”

Rattle also commended the band’s main sponsor, Investec Bank and social entrepreneur Linda Twala. “Twala has unyieldingly supported us with non-perishable food making it possible for us to hold successful camps in preparation for regional, national competitions and other events which we entertain,” said Rattle.

Annually, the band provides the children with school uniforms and takes them on educational tours.

“Last year we took them to Durban and this year we appeal for donations to take them to other places like Cape Town,” said Phumzile Twala, the band’s project manager.

“The trips are important for these children as many of them have never explored the world outside Alexandra.”

Twala appealed for additional musical instruments to replace old ones.

Details: Phumzile Twala on 083 500 9785.