Birchleigh Field Band wins People’s Choice Award

Birchleigh Field Band achieved a significant milestone by winning the inaugural People’s Choice Award at the Field Band National Championships, held on September 28 at DP World Wanderers Stadium.

Celebrating its 24th anniversary, the annual event brought together nearly 2 000 young participants from communities across South Africa, providing them with a platform to showcase their musical and performance talents while representing their bands and communities with pride.

Godfrey Molele, project officer for Birchleigh Field Band, said the award reflects the children’s hard work and dedication.

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“It was an amazing win for us,” said Molele.

“The children were thrilled to see their efforts recognised, especially knowing that we were voted number one in the People’s Choice Award. It was the first year this trophy was introduced, and we secured it with the support of 23 000 votes.”

The band’s success can be attributed to a rigorous practice schedule, which includes regular two-hour sessions from Monday to Thursday and intensive day camps during school holidays.

The Music for All model practiced by the band promotes inclusivity, bringing together members with and without disabilities to perform as a unified ensemble.

“What sets our band apart is our collaboration with members from Con Amore School, who live with disabilities.

“We perform together as one, and both groups were integral to the show we presented at the national championships,” said Molele.

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He explained that the band’s song choices this year reflected their commitment to inclusivity, with themes of love, acceptance, and unity woven into the music.

One of the highlights was their rendition of Michael Jackson’s I’ll Be There, during which a learner from Con Amore School, despite facing difficulties with pronunciation, found a way to convey his emotions through the song.

“Our goal is to break boundaries and challenge societal perceptions about people living with disabilities,” said Molele.

“We aim to increase the number of members with disabilities to over 100, allowing them to showcase their talents on the national stage.”

Molele emphasised the personal impact of being part of the band.

“Being involved has profoundly changed my life. It’s taught me to appreciate life and time. I find fulfilment in making a positive impact on the children, especially those living with disabilities, who are often overlooked.”

Looking ahead, the Birchleigh Field Band plans to continue its inclusive approach, pushing boundaries and inspiring others through their performances.

The Field Band Foundation, established in 1997, aims to empower young people through music and performance.

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Over the past 24 years, the National Championships have become a symbol of social transformation, using music as a tool to uplift and inspire youth from diverse backgrounds.

“This year’s event featured eight of the top-performing field bands from across the country, competing in a vibrant display of musical talent, precision, and creativity.

“Leading experts from the entertainment industry evaluated the performances,” said Kgomotso Buthelezi, business development manager at the Field Band Foundation.

One of the day’s highlights was an impromptu performance by minister Gayton McKenzie, who joined the Field Band Foundation’s Mass Band to play the trumpet as part of a spectacular formation of the South African flag.

“The moment was a powerful testament to the unifying spirit of music and the celebration of national pride,” Buthelezi added.

Carmen Govender, principal of Hoërskool Birchleigh, praised the impact of the Field Band’s programmes on the learners.

“The band has provided a nurturing environment for students who struggled with self-doubt or restless energy, instilling in them self-belief and discipline,” said Govender.

“Through music and performance, they’ve found a creative outlet and developed essential skills that extend far beyond the stage.

Their discipline, teamwork, hard work, and talent have shone through, not just in their musical abilities but in their commitment to excellence.

“This achievement will inspire them to continue striving for greatness and make a positive impact in our school and community.”