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Giving Back in Two Tones

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A little bit of Candlelight, a magnum of Champagne and a bit of dancing could lead to Valentines Action.

Inspiring performers and music educators, Gareth and Ulagh Williams have embarked on a music development programme aimed at identifying young talent in the township schools of Nelson Mandela Bay and providing them with high-quality musical training.

TwoTone manages the TwoTone Show Band, as well as the Mandela Bay Symphonic Wind Orchestra and Mandela Bay Big Band (MB3). The voluntary non-profit Sound of Learning (SouL) project is currently in its pilot phase. TwoTone believes in providing a platform for young talent from all walks of life and believe in the potential of talent in local townships.

Since its inception in 2010, the project has reached more than 14 schools in Zwide, New Brighton and Gelvandale.

TwoTone, along with members of the Mandela Bay Symphonic Wind Orchestra (MBSWO) visit the schools and introduce the learners (all in primary school phase) to various instruments. They are hoping to motivate the youth to become involved in music, thereby becoming valued members of society and even having sustainable careers. One learner from New Brighton, a 17-year old drummer, has been gigging with TwoTone for over a year, while an 18-year old clarinet player from Zwide plays in the MBSWO.

According to Ulagh Williams, the second phase of the project will involve getting financial assistance for the organisation’s long-term vision to deploy music teachers in selected schools.

Editors Notes: The above article was unashamedly ‘stolen’ from EC Talent.

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.