Enjoy a music concert with a difference

THE Genesis Music Academy Concert will be held at Norwegian Settlers’ Church this Friday, December 12 at 6.15pm.

The cost is R50 for adults and R20 for children under 16 years old.

It features Brian Algie, The Youth Worx Band, Sivuya Zondani, Hope 2 Africa, Youth Alive, Genesis Music Choir, Murchison Angels, as well as Lizanne Nair and the GMA Band.

“The GMA is a place where music is used to reach out to the youth of various disadvantaged communities,” explained Lizanne Nair, operations manager.

“Music is an activity and an art that breaks down barriers and builds relationships. Learning an instrument is a way of bringing youth together to make a joyful noise, as well as provide an alternative activity for those youth who may not have a safe place to go after school. Many of our youth are exceptionally talented, however they are not able to learn to play instruments due to their desperate economic circumstances,” said Lizanne.

She said that in an area where children may be fortunate enough to eat one basic meal a day, having access to a musical instrument was an absolute privilege.

“GMA targeted music as an activity to give young people an opportunity to develop their talents and express themselves creatively. We have over 100 children whom we have taught to play many musical instruments, including guitar, drums, piano. We also offer vocal lessons. Our lessons are free of charge to the children from the rural areas,” she said.

“The purpose of this concert is to raise funds for proper instruments and, most importantly, soundproofing.”