Young musicians shine as Field Band Foundation celebrates 25 years of empowerment
The Field Band Foundation’s national championships at DP World Wanderers Stadium celebrated both musical talent and the life-changing impact of the programme.
Birchleigh Field Band member, Didintle Mokgoro, said: “It has been an absolutely exhilarating experience. I enjoyed performing today and practising all day and night to show up - it was extremely fun. “It has helped me grow as a person by encouraging me to be more active in my group, my community, and my youth circle. I feel more included with other people, meeting new faces and making new friends. It has been an absolutely great experience just getting to know new people.”
Field Band Foundation had their 25th Annual National Championships at DP World Wanderers Stadium on October 11, bringing ten of their bands together to determine who are the champions.
Mandini Field Band member, Ayabonga Mbatha, said: “I thought I was going to be nervous, but I wasn’t. We had to play our hearts out, and everything went well. “To be honest, I joined the band for two weeks and then quit because, growing up, I wasn’t really into music, but I eventually went back. My tutors have helped me a lot to understand music and to fall in love with it. It’s been a great experience.”
Kempton Express spoke to a number of the Field Band members to learn about their experience and how did Field Band change their lives.
Soweto Field Band member, Olwethu Radebe, said: “I won’t lie, but there is a bitter side to it and a sweet side to it. As people, we are all different, and we come together with different mindsets, different ideas, and from different backgrounds – so we need to find common ground. “Field Band changed my life because I was always in the streets, always with friends, and I didn’t listen when I was reprimanded. But since I joined Field Band, my social skills have developed, and I am no long
Alexandra Field Band member, Thando Gama, said: “It has been tough because we’ve been waking up early and sleeping late, but I think it was worth it. It was a bit difficult – I wouldn’t say it was easy either – but I really enjoyed it. “Field Band changed me for the better because I now know myself more. I know how to treat people, play with children, love them, support them, and give them the care they need. I’ve also learned about teamwork and what it means to be part of it.”
Cape Whalers Field Band member, Arcadia Don, said: “I feel happy because Field Band has made me feel like I belong. I’ve walked with them for so many years, and it has helped me communicate with people I had never spoken to before. “With Field Band, it’s not only about playing music; it’s also about showing people how music can help others, bring people together, and spread happiness. “At first, I used to be grumpy, rude, disrespectful and angry, but now I’m starting to settle down
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