Glen Marais woman starts crowdfunding for musicians

A crowdfunding Facebook group has been created to give musicians relief during the coronavirus lockdown in South Africa.

Edleen bassist Estian le Grange, who sessions for Jo Black, told Express how important it was in the music industry to have one’s eggs in more than one basket.

“I play for Jo Black and that is where 60 per cent of my income is generated. I also offer music lessons to school learners and that is where the other 40 per cent comes from.”

He says he and many other musicians are also involved at churches in varying capacities to make up income, depending on the fluctuating demand in the industry.

Jo Black performances have been cancelled until April 16, which included a European tour which would have commenced in May.

“The number of cancellations and postponements increases daily. My lessons at schools have been cancelled due to school lockdown. However, there are plans for online Skype lessons in the pipeline.”

For Estian, the issue remains that music lessons are one of the expenses to be cut first in the light of people saving money for the uncertain times ahead.

What did Jo Black say? “He had a feeling of what’s currently happening a while ago and warned us that there are difficult times ahead and how we ought to work wise, financially. He is with us in this situation and has offered to support us in ways he can.”

Due to these rising concerns in the music industry, Glen Marais resident Letitia van der Walt founded the Facebook group, Crowdfunding for South African Musicians.

“This pandemic is killing economies more than people. With many friends in the music and theatre industry full-time, we are seeing the financial impact on these households first-hand.”

The group has gained a membership of over 1 500 since its creation on March 16. It aims to generate funds for those negatively affected by the Covid-19 crisis.

“All funds donated will be distributed from one account and all records of transactions kept. The account will also be audited by a professional and independent auditor, John Moffat, for ease of mind for those who want to donate,” said Letitia.

“We call on you to share this group and to add any musician friends you may have who is currently experiencing financial difficulty due to the situation on hand.”

Terms and conditions apply.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/2591680724378281/.