Here’s to another 25 years for Buskaid
A wonderful concert with humble, but brilliant young musicians from Soweto.
Buskaid held its 25th anniversary concert on July, 17 at the Linder Auditorium for an afternoon that truly celebrated the musicians who formed the Soweto String Ensemble.
The packed auditorium was filled with every age, race and background who were all there to celebrate excellence and a love of music. The programme started off with more traditional classical pieces, had a new composition from acclaimed composer Julian Grant before moving to better known classics with vocals for songs such as At Last by Etta James.
Formed by Rosemary Nalden, Buskaid’s vision is for ‘all township children to be given the opportunity to channel their creative energies and talents through learning and playing classical music to the highest international standards’.
Nalden said, “Music is transformational for everyone, but classical music played for a child, even before it is born, can have incredible benefits – it’s known as the Mozart Effect. Playing a classical musical instrument changes a person, especially stringed instruments which are incredibly difficult to master. Whatever the future holds for these young players, through participation in this programme they have already benefited in ways they can’t imagine.
“Twenty five years is a long time, and it was therefore an important concert with a very difficult and demanding programme. It was a risk, and I am so proud of all the young players on stage who rose to the occasion and played brilliantly. I felt huge emotion at the end when the audience got up to dance and join in toward the end of the concert when the singing started.
“Without our sponsors, audience members and supporters we could not do this important work and we are all extremely grateful for all the support over the last 25 years!”
Bridget van Oerle, who owns The BUZ Factor and does PR for Buskaid said, “What a joy it is to work with Buskaid and see the exuberance of the members of the orchestra. The work that has been done over the last 25 years has been incredible. Audiences walk out on a high and after each performance and after the restrictions of Covid-19, it’s really fantastic to see that again.”
Buskaid is sustained by several generous South African businesses and trusts but are always in need of donations. If you would like to contribute, please visit www.buskaid.org.za/donations.htm
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