Two music learners-turned-teachers with Masi Violin Outreach, a Masiphumelele-based community music programme, are embarking on an internationally-recognised Suzuki Teacher Training in Johannesburg this year, a milestone for musicians from the area.
Ayabonga Tshemese and Onke Mbopha, who started learning violin through the outreach programme more than a decade ago, will undertake Suzuki Level 1 teacher training, an internationally-respected qualification focusing on music pedagogy, child development and the renowned Suzuki philosophy.
Masi Violin, a registered non-profit, provides free, twice-weekly group violin lessons to children (ages 6+) in the Masiphumelele township.
From learners to educators
Both teachers have dedicated years as learners, performers and assistant teachers before reaching this pivotal moment in their careers. Their journey exemplifies the organisation’s commitment to creating sustainable pathways from student to educator within the community.
The comprehensive training programme spans four intensive in-person modules throughout the year, including travel to Johannesburg, marking both teachers’ first opportunity to participate in large-scale national training outside Cape Town.
Mbopha said he was excited to start his training.
“To study under the Suzuki method and being able to learn how to pass it on to the next generation is just surreal,” he said. “I am grateful for the opportunity. Not everyone from a similar background as us ever really gets these kind of opportunities so for us to get it for free, without stressing about the financial side of it, I’m forever grateful.”
Tshemese said he was excited about learning new techniques and imparting these lessons to his learners.
“This will enable them to engage with educators from across South Africa and learn from experienced Suzuki teacher trainers. This is the first module and there’ll be four throughout the year and they will be internationally accredited.”
This is also the first time both violinists will board a plane.
Strengthening community impact
The training extends far beyond individual development, with skills gained through structured teaching methods, tone development, and ensemble leadership being integrated directly into Masi Violin Outreach’s weekly lessons. This investment strengthens teaching quality and ensures long-term programme sustainability while creating meaningful employment opportunities within the Masiphumelele community.
Philosophy of musical development.
Nicolette Solomon-van Wyk, a South African Violinist and Suzuki Teacher now living in Texas, sponsored Tshemese and Mbopha’s training to the value of R40 000.
The programme draws inspiration from Shinichi Suzuki’s philosophy that early music education develops not only musical ability, but also discipline, sensitivity, and confidence in young learners.
Community support needed
Masi Violin Outreach has expressed gratitude to generous sponsors making this opportunity possible, while also appealing for community support toward travel and accommodation costs for the Johannesburg training sessions.
Those wishing to support Tshemese and Mbopha’s journey can find more information at www.masiviolinoutreach.co.za or email masiviolinoutreach@gmail.com.
Programme expansion
The organisation will also welcome 35 new violin learners this year and actively seeks instrument donations from community members with unused violins.”Instrument donations play a vital role in making access to music education possible,” Mony noted.
For more information, contact Nadiah Mony at masiviolinoutreach@gmail.com.
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