Lifestyle/Community
Soweto music school sings different tune
Morris Isaacson High School in Soweto has a long-standing connection to the Jewish community in Johannesburg, having originally been built by the Lithuanian Jewish immigrant after whom it is named.
OWN CORRESPONDENT
Initially, Isaacson had set up a fund for black students to complete their education to university level, but in 1956 the 10-classroom school was opened to 300 pupils. It was originally called Mohloding School.
Its adjoining music centre, formerly known as the Cape Gate MIAGI Centre for Music, was recently rebranded the Morris Isaacson Centre of Music. A joint collaboration between MIAGI CEO Robert Brooks and philanthropist Mendel Kaplan, this purpose-built music centre on the grounds of the school was designed by architect Monty Sack and opened its doors in 2012.
Access to music education is a luxury in most township schools, yet many studies have revealed that children who are taught music benefit from the focus, team work and discipline it requires. There are other benefits too, such as removing them from the lure of drugs, alcohol or sex that might exist in their communities.
The growth of the rebranded centre and the push towards a wider priority of human development through music is heavily supported by the Kaplan Kushlik Education Foundation.