St Francis College piano learner, Murray-John Boonzaier (11), has played his way into Trinity College London’s music hall of fame, scooping a spot on the international exam board’s Eastern Cape list of top achievers.
Grade five learner, Boonzaier, is one of more than 100 provincial candidates awarded 90% or above in the annual music assessment, which took place at Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha in November last year.
The Trinity exams attract over 850 000 candidates each year, from more than 60 countries, and cover several disciplines, including music, drama and combined arts.
Piano teacher, Natasha Brown, said that she is super-proud of Boonzaier whom she describes as a “maestro”.
“He has a natural talent, and every song that he plays he does with great enthusiasm and love,” said Natasha.
“It is such a pleasure teaching this young boy and an honour for our school to have a representative like him.”
Boonzaier’s mother, Saskia Boonzaier, said that the family was very grateful to Natasha for her encouragement and dedication.
“She is just the most inspiring and creative teacher you could ever meet. She has endless patience and love for music and her learners,” said Saskia.
“Murray-John can’t wait for his lessons each week and we are so honoured to have someone of Natasha’s expertise and capabilities in the village and school.”
Saskia said that her son is also inspired by local musician, piano tuner and instrument expert, Christo Nel, from whom they bought a Knight piano earlier this year for Boonzaier to use.
“Having his very own piano has meant that he can practise his pieces in his bedroom last thing at night, in order to relax before bed,” said Saskia.
Trinity College London local area representative for the Eastern Cape, Dawn Spence, said that she was very proud of all the learners who had participated – many of whom achieved distinctions in the high eighties.
“I really am very proud of the successes in 2022. Keep it up – we have a wonderful music tradition in our province and that is very uplifting,” said Spence.
