Special school band plays in perfect tune

Pupils of Ningizumu Special School’s marimba and steelpan band won the Education Africa International Marimba and Steelpan Festival special school category held in Bedfordview in Johannesburg from 2 to 3 August. Some 140 bands performed at the event. At last year’s event the school placed third in the special schools category.
Ningizumu Special School’s band practised whenever they could. The band also performed at various municipal events to prepare them for the International Marimba and Steelpan Festival. “I’m very proud of the children, they have worked so hard for this,” said principal Sibongile Ngubane.
This award-winning band placed first in the specials schools category, first in the strictly classical category and second in the ‘in the mix’ category. The 10 member band performs under the guidance of music teacher, Sizwe Ngcobo who has been in charge for six years. “It made me so excited to see them win. It made me realise I do my job well, I’m so proud of the children,” said Sizwe.
The school won music equipment to the value of R3,000 including two electric keyboards. Jazz legend Andy Narell also wants to collaborate with pupils of Ningizumu Special School’s marimba and steelpan band.
Sphelele Mngodi is a member of the band and wants pursue his love for music when he finishes school. He says he enjoyed working together with band members and teachers as a team. “When we won, we were so excited and couldn’t sleep the night after the competition. Some songs were really difficult but the teachers helped us,” said Siphelele.
The school band’s next goal is to compete in a festival in Trinidad and Tobago in February 2015. The school needs to raise R500,000 to cover travel expenses for the festival. If anyone would like to help with funds, contact Ningizumu Special School on 031-469-0767 or Sibongile on 074-352-6093 or email ngubane@mweb.co.za.