KZN is known for its rich mix of cultural influences, with diverse musical styles as its landscape for decades. A breeding ground for many of South Africa’s musical icons, the province has become a significant vehicle for music education in various forms and mediums.
With that in mind, Nabak Arts, a non-profit company dedicated to the development of Music Education in South Africa, with its strong ties to the renowned UKZN Jazz & Popular music programme, is serious about its commitment to developing and growing young musical talent at KZN based schools. This forms the impetus for the launch of the first KZN Schools Jazz & Rock Musical Festival, which will be hosted at Durban High School from 20 to 22 MARCH 2020.
THEIR MISSION
- To use KZN-based music industry professionals to promote the training and education of Jazz and Rock Music to high school learners at a three-day camp; to give hope to youth through music education training and festivals; and to grow and develop audiences in KZN to support the performance of live music.
BENEFITS OF THE FESTIVAL
- It will provide a platform for local artists and music students to become more recognized in our community, and will expose and increase the potential for sales and work.
- To network learners with Artists, funding opportunities, sales opportunities, patrons and sponsors.
- It will help develop children in the field of Music, providing an outlet for their talents.
- Music Education helps to develop the areas of the brain related to language and reasoning.
- Student musicians are constantly using their memory to perform. The skill of memorization can serve students well in education and beyond.
- Music is the fabric of our society, and music can help shape abilities and character. Learners in bands or orchestras are less likely to abuse substances over their lifetime. Musical education can greatly contribute to children’s intellectual development as well.
- Students of music tend to be more emotionally developed, with empathy towards other cultures. They also tend to have higher self-esteem and are better at coping with anxiety.
- Children who study the arts can learn to think creatively. This can help them solve problems by thinking outside the box and realizing that there may be more than one right answer.
- Music education can prepare students for the workforce. The new economy, and access to music technology has created more artistic careers. These jobs may grow faster than other more conventional options in the future.
PROGRAMME
The daily programme will be full of jazz and rock music teaching and performances. 12 KZN based music educators/ professionals will conduct workshops and rehearsals with approximately 80 high school learners. Each learner will be placed in a group of varying abilities, which will perform at the finale concert on Sunday, 22 March 2020. A total of 8 concerts will take place at three venues; Chris Seabrooke Music Centre, Seabrooke’s Theatre and DC Thompson Hall, over the duration of the festival. These concerts will also be open to the public. Age group: 13-18. Cost: R900 (includes meals and accommodation).
CONTACT
Festival Director: Natalie Rungan
Email: [email protected]
Mobile: 065 8651029
