GQEBERHA – The Field Band Foundation’s young musicians are set to parade through the streets of Motherwell in Gqeberha on Saturday, 10 October, in a free community celebration.

The foundation teaches life skills to young people from the age of two, and those interested can remain involved for even longer. The group recently performed in Mthatha.

Field Band Foundation field operations manager Jacob Mhlapeng confirmed that the foundation has a presence across the country.

“We are based all over the country; we are only short of two provinces, but our footprints are large in the whole of South Africa.”

Mhlapeng said that after members matriculate, the foundation assists them in obtaining bursaries, while many also find opportunities within the foundation itself.

“We have different programmes; one of them is the tutor-in-training programme. After they become our members, we give them a programme where they tutor their peers. We also give them incentives — as they show qualities of leadership and enthusiasm, they must keep on going.

“After matric, we send them out there to find universities, so we create opportunities for them to get jobs. We take those who are interested to schools.”

Building skills and creating opportunities

He said not all members wanted to become musicians, but those who did were given the opportunity to sit internationally recognised examinations.

On completion, they can pursue careers in organisations such as the Military Police and the South African National Defence Force. Those who do not wish to pursue music are also assisted in finding employment.

Mhlapeng confirmed that the foundation had been operating for 29 years and would celebrate its 30th anniversary next year. It started in 1997 with five projects and now has 10 projects across the country.

Leading the celebration will be the Field Band Foundation’s Red Honour Band, whose members are all accredited by the Royal Schools of Music.

They will be joined by about 25 young local musicians, adding a community flavour to the parade alongside national performance excellence.

Music brings communities together

Foundation chief executive officer Ushama Ross Jerrier said music had the power to transform young lives.

“Our bands give children who might never otherwise have the chance a place to learn, to grow in confidence, and to be part of something bigger than themselves.

Days like this celebrate that journey and the communities that make it possible. Every time our bands play, it is a community celebrating its own talent,” said Jerrier.

Jerrier added that, beyond the music, the day was designed as a family outing, with free entertainment, giveaways and Spin & Win games.

The celebration is organised and sponsored by Lesaka.

Families, from young children to the elderly, are encouraged to come out, support the local band and enjoy the festivities.

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