By Busi Vilakazi
Music conductor Siyabonga Mabaso is using his talent to inspire others.
Siyabonga is giving back to the community of Jeppestown by being a conductor at the Golden Years Social Club based at Bertha Solomon.
“I met the founder of the social club at church. When she saw me conducting the worship team, she approached me and asked me to help with the elderly,” explained Siyabonga.
He said he is privileged to be conducting a choir of the elderly as it has taught him about life.
“They don’t see me as a youngster. They respect and listen to me. They value my advice on music and they also advise me about life and share with me how singing has brought them joy,” said Siyabonga.
He said when he started he could see many of the elderly had lost hope and joy.
“I noticed how much joy singing brought to their lives. They are now happy and enjoy what they are doing. Some come from a difficult background and the choir provides comfort as they get to express their feelings,” said Siyabonga.
He said music has brought healing to the members of the Golden Years choir.
“Their dignity has been restored and they love what they do. They recently performed for a church in Jeppestown and that performance was priceless. Seeing a crowd cheering for them was special. They now want to perform for even bigger crowds,” said Siyabonga.
“I hope they become a well-known group that performs at high profile gatherings. The members are old but they have the youngest of hearts and with their dedication, they can go far,” he said.
