Video: Music runs in dynamic duo’s blood
Roos has an incredible vocal range, a blessing he fine-tuned during his days as a Drakensburg Boys' Choir member and has been singing for 10 years. Dias Ferreira is a classical guitar virtuoso from a vast musical background.
MBOMBELA – Paul McCartney and Paul Simon influenced and entertained generations of musicians with their music on stage and continue to do so today.
This musical aptitude it seems has now started manifesting in two other Pauls from Penryn College who show exceptional talent on a guitar and behind a microphone.
Grade 11 learners, Paul Roos and Paul Dias Ferreira, are a musical duo that may differ in personality and musical character, but what they both share is a deep love for music that emanates when they create melodies together.
Their rendition of local artist, Matthew Mole’s hit song, “Take Your’s, I’ll Take Mine” was both enduring and soothing to the ear with their styles mixing perfectly.
Roos has an incredible vocal range, a blessing he fine-tuned during his days as a Drakensburg Boys’ Choir member and has been singing for 10 years. Dias Ferreira is a classical guitar virtuoso from a vast musical background.
Interestingly both learners’ musical training started at the age of eight.
“I was born in Switzerland and come from a very musical family who can play everything from a saxophone to a viola. I started with piano but I did not like that instrument and then started playing guitar which was one of the best decisions of my life,” said Dias Ferreira.
“I was introduced to piano at the age of eight and then my music teacher Alma Schoeman heard me singing and contacted Dr Johann van der Sandt from the Drakensburg Boys’ Choir. I soon got selected for the choir which was a life- changing experience,” Roos said.
He went to North America in 2011 with the choir and performed in numerous cities across the USA. He later left their choir with the intention of becoming a solo singer and following his dreams.
His family emigrated to Australia but came back to South Africa and he joined Penryn College in March this year. Roos also recently recorded a demo album called “All about Me”.
“I have enjoyed every minute of my music at Penryn College. My music teacher, Miss Liz van der Merwe really does a lot to help us on our musical journey,” he added.
Dias Ferreira agrees with this statement and adds that music has to have meaning, which is one of the reasons he cites the legendary Johnny Clegg as his musical inspiration.
“His music is the best as it has a sense of culture, creativity and flair. It has the power to speak to any person and pinpoints injustices in society. Plus he is a brilliant guitar player.”
These two young gentleman also would like to continue playing music after they matriculate, but concur that there should be a backup plan in place.
“I am of the opinion that the SA music industry should look and identify talent at a younger age. Exposure is key,” said Roos who would like to gain more knowledge overseas in building his solo career.
“South Africa has a vast musical heritage with a lot of different influences from traditional African music to some European influences.
“There should be a bigger music culture with more festivals to showcase our talent,” added the other Paul who sees music as his backup plan with a primary interest in conservation.
Both of them also agree that music should be performed with passion and dedication in order to be exceptional.
“I chose choir over school and my life revolves around music. I should probably spend more time on academics but without music I would be lost. It keeps me going,” said Roos.
“Musicianship does not happen overnight. You have to work your butt off. There must be self-motivation and a love for music to truly master an instrument,” Dias Ferreira mentioned.
