Music school flourishes in Manenberg

Hazel Allies-Husselman|Published 10 months ago

Piano and guitar teacher, Moegamat Razak Johnson, middle, with his charges, from left, Skylar Marcus, 10, Tasco Meyer, 21, Almaaz Goodwin, 10, and Caryn du Plessis, 13.

The children, their parents and teachers from Share it Music and Dance School gathered on Saturday to celebrate their first year of existence.

Actress Jill Levenberg, better known for her roles in Suidooster and Ellen: The Ellen Pakkies story, shared a motivational speech.

Carlyle Engelbrecht, 16, shows his drumming skills.

From left are, contemporary dance teacher, Ashwin Ambrose; music advisor, David Mentoor; actress Jill Levenberg; guitar and piano tutor, Razak Johnson; hip hop dance tutor, Mueena Charles; director and drum tutor, Ashley Smith; and master of ceremonies, Meagan Ohlson.

A group of artists who share a vision to uplift Manenberg, volunteer their time to teach children to play musical instruments and dance.

On Saturday May 18, the children of Share it Music and Dance School, had the opportunity to show their parents what they have learned over the past year when they put up a show for them. The showcase was held at the Restoration Nazarene Church in Manenberg, where the classes are also held.

The music school was founded by Ashley Smith, an artist who wanted to do something meaningful for his community.

“As a musician, I used to travel a lot. In 2020, I decided that I was tired of performing, but music has always been my passion. I then decided to go back to my community and start the music school,” Mr Smith said.

When he started it one year ago, he only had seven children wanting to learn to play drums. They are taught both theory and practical. More children arrived and four months later, piano and guitar lessons were also introduced. Later, dance was also offered. Trumpet lessons are also in the pipeline. A total of 68 children are now enrolled at Share it. Children from as young as seven years are welcome to enrol, and the classes are even open to adults.

On Saturday, actress Jill Levenberg, better known for her role as Moena in Suidooster and Ellen Pakkies in the movie Ellen: The Ellen Pakkies story, shared her experiences growing up under tough economic circumstances to encourage the young people.

“Growing up, we struggled financially. Ons het lekker gesukkel. At times we only had mieliepap to eat. It is our struggle however, that made me stronger. Challenges help us grow character and it teaches us to get by with little. People didn’t know that even after five years of playing Moena on Suidooster, I was still living in a wendy house in my parents’ backyard. I worked hard, prayed and visualised and thanked God for my future house and car, and today I am blessed with it. Where there is a will, there is a way. Education can get you out of your circumstances. This music and dance school is a gift,” Ms Levenberg said.

The school is in need of more musical instruments. If you can assist, contact Mr Smith at 061 496 6027.