Buskaid

to raise funds to support the musical education of children, youth, and young adults at the Buskaid Music School, Diepkloof, Soweto; to promote the performance of both classical music and African traditional music by young musicians residing principally in the South African township of Soweto; to benefit the public by enabling local and world-wide public performances presented by the Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble, through live concerts and on online platforms; to support the creation of employment opportunities for young black musicians through training and development schemes at the Buskaid Music School: e.g. teacher-training schemes, as well as apprenticeships in the maintenance and repair of musical instruments ; to address, through music education, the challenges caused by poverty and inequality which still exist in the townships of South Africa; to provide social and generational educational support for Buskaid students. The Buskaid Music School was founded by Rosemary Nalden in January 1997 in response to requests from the local community in Diepkloof Soweto. In 1999, Buskaid built its own dedicated Music School in Diepkloof, which currently comprises approximately 140 students and members, ranging in age from six to thirty-eight, all of whom are drawn from the less privileged local community. Since 2002 the Music School has run a teacher-training course for all its students; currently twelve senior Buskaid members are employed as highly skilled string teachers at the Music School, whilst several more are employed as string teachers at schools and institutions across South Africa. The Buskaid Soweto String Ensemble
In the twenty-three years of its existence, the Buskaid Music School has produced a senior string ensemble with a formidable reputation for high standards of performance and a sophisticated grasp of musical style. The Ensemble has toured internationally, performing with huge success in the UK, Europe, the USA, New Zealand, Botswana, Syria, Colombia, Brazil, and Réunion Island. The Ensemble has also played under the baton of Sir John Eliot Gardiner, with such distinguished artists as Melvyn Tan, Steven Isserlis and Karl Jenkins, and has given concerts in the presence of many dignitaries such as Nelson Mandela, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and Mrs Michelle Obama. Student Achievements
Since 1997 several Buskaid students have attended prestigious British music colleges at tertiary level. Buskaid has also entered 121 candidates for ABRSM music examinations and diplomas, with a 100% pass rate - a tribute to these young people’s dedication and discipline. Those students who battle with problems such as difficult home circumstances, drug abuse and bereavement, find both support and solace at the Music School. Whilst providing a first-class training ground for the exceptional musical talent to be found throughout the townships, Buskaid also challenges its members to attain to high standards in all aspects of their lives, giving them confidence and a great sense of optimism about their future. In all senses they are role models and a fine example of how a modest endeavour can impact powerfully on both local and international communities.