Celebrating social cohesion and music

OWN CORRESPONDENT

Named Sounds of Celebration, the project has been in existence for six years. It raises money for the establishment of marimba hubs in a wide number of disadvantaged schools, providing educator training and creative spaces for pupils.

“The project is an example to members of my community [and beyond] of the important role we can all play in the betterment of the wider South African community,” says Rabbi Yehuda Stern of Sydenham Shul.

Between 2013 and 2018, Sounds of Celebration opened five marimba hubs: at Ithute in Alexandra; the Zama Montessori School in Daveyton; the Boys and Girls Club of Protea Glen; and its newest hubs in Hammanskraal, and the Boys and Girls Club at Bertrams.

The project currently focuses on ensuring the sustainability and growth of 11 existing Education Africa Marimba Hubs so that more pupils can benefit from these opportunities.

Sounds of Celebration’s annual fundraising culminates in a celebratory concert every year, which brings young people together from all walks of life.

Musical talent is displayed on a range of instruments, including marimba, a steel band, gumboot dancers, a pipe band, a Japanese Koto, Djembe and Penny Whistle ensembles, and a male voice choir. This year’s show will take place in the second week of April, just before Pesach.