Academy uses music to nurture future leaders

SUPPORTED by Redefine Properties since 2013, the Buskaid Music Academy was established in 1997 by British viola player Rosemary Nalden to develop musical talent and the ability to perform in disadvantaged children from Diepkloof.

The Redefine and Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble partnership won the International Sponsorship Award for the ensemble’s successful tour, sponsored by Redefine, of the UK in July last year.

“Several international studies have shown how training in the arts is connected to improvement in attention and cognitive skills, which is why we believe the discipline and focus children learn as members of Buskaid will translate into them becoming future leaders in whatever they choose to do later in life,” says Redefine Properties CEO Andrew Konig.

He cites Gilbert Tsoke, who joined Buskaid as a cellist when he was 14 years old, as proof of this being possible. Three years after joining Buskaid, Tsoke completed his Diploma in Cello Performance through the Associated Board of the Royal School of Music.

“Fast-forward 18 years, and Gilbert has just added an MBA from the Gordon Institute of Business Science to his curriculum, which already boasts a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Logistics Management from the University of Johannesburg,” says Konig. “What’s more, Gilbert still regularly plays at Buskaid’s weekend concerts in the continued belief that studying music helps discipline his focus.”

Buskaid and Redefine agreed a tour of the UK would be a great opportunity to provide the young musicians with the chance of showcasing their talent and that of SA on international stages. Delighting audiences with classical pieces, pop songs and township jives, the 10-day tour resulted in sold-out performances and standing ovations wherever they went. The ensemble was also recently listed on CNN’s Ones To Watch, which nominates and highlights “up and coming stars in the world of classical music”.