Witpoortjie youngster dreams of being a drummer

Following your dreams is not always an easy task, and you can easily be discouraged by circumstances that can sometimes result in not realising your specific dream or reaching your set goal.

The 10-year-old Raphael Motsisi’s dream is to play the drums, and even though he does not have a drum set to play on, he found a way to develop his talent and passion, much to the delight of his father and neighbours. Raphael, who is a Grade 5 learner at Roodebeeck Primary School, went for a stroll through their yard, and quickly found some empty containers and unused buckets standing around.

After some careful planning, each bucket and container was put in just the right place, transforming them into his very own drum set. He still had a small problem though as he did not have drumsticks, but another quick walk through the yard solved that problem, as two twigs from a tree were selected for this purpose.

And, just like that, Raphael was transformed into a drummer, happily drumming away on his drum set.One of his neighbours, Mark van der Walt, heard the rhythmic drumming, and was curious to see what it was all about.

“I discovered this young boy, playing his heart out on this makeshift drum set with such passion and dedication. He has a whole bunch of plastic containers all laid out as normal drums would be laid out. He is a single child and plays from morning to night. I think at his age it would be a lot more than just playing for the sake of it; he has rhythm, is well spoken and I think he has a definite talent,” Mark said.

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Raphael’s father, Raphael Williams said that his son’s interest in playing the drums was awakened by observing the church drummer, and he said, “He has been showing a talent for playing the drums since he was about four years old, but because of circumstances, he had to hone this talent on this drum set made out of plastic containers, as we do not have the means to get him a proper one”.

He added that being able to play on a real drum set would mean the world to his son. “He would be so glad if he could have his own, real drum set to play on and thereby improve his skill. Even though he does not have a favourite drummer at the moment, this would help him to become as good as any of the great drummers.”

Raphael added that music flows through their family and bloodline, and said, “My grandfathers, both paternal and maternal, were great song composers. I, his dad, sing and play the piano (without a formal instructor), and my eldest sister and nephews are all good singers and composers.”

But, Raphael (junior) does not only have a talent for drumming, he is also a keen soccer player. “He is equally comfortable behind the drums as he is on the soccer field dribbling the ball, and a few neighbours and passers-by have noticed his skills. He always said he wanted to be a soccer player, but you never know what might change; he might become a world famous drummer!” his father said.

Raphael concluded by saying, “As a single father, it is difficult for me not to be able to assist my son to hone his talents, either behind the drums or with a soccer ball.

I just want the best for my boy, and should there be anyone that can maybe help us with a drum set they no longer use, or with soccer gear, I would really appreciate it, as it would mean the world to my son and it might just be that one thing he needs to help him become the best he can be”.

Should anyone be able to assist, contact Raphael by sending an email to williamsraphael115@gmail.com.