The Gauteng Academy of Music is celebrating its 30th anniversary.
When a founder steps down or unfortunately dies, an organization can decline and eventually disappear.
The Gauteng Academy of Music (MAG) is celebrating 30 years since it was founded by legendary musician Dr Johnny Mekoa.
The veteran trumpeter and music teacher passed away in 2017, but his legacy and values live on at MAG.
“Dr Mekoa’s dream was to create a safe space for young people, often disadvantaged, to work safely. South Africans would receive a world-class music education and access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. “We can do that,” said Hendrik Monieke, MAG's administrator and director of education. The Citizen.
“Today, that vision continues to thrive under the leadership of the Academy, ensuring that his legacy continues.”
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Maintaining Mekoa's selfless vision
Mekoa founded MAG as a means to nurture and develop young musical talent.
Over the years, we have hosted many overseas jazz professors and held workshops and master classes for students.
Some of these students include internationally respected South African Musos such as Mthunzi Mbubu, Malcolm Jiyane and Linda Tshabalala.
“We have closed the gap in access to education, created employment opportunities and fostered a sense of identity and pride in South African music,” Moneki asserted.
According to Monyeki, the vision of the founders has been carried forward by leaders like Steven Mabona, who ensured that MAG remained a cultural institution and not just a school.
MAG's Founding Principles. Nurturing talent, preserving South African jazz and empowering youth through music remain the pillars that hold this city together.
“The Academy's success stories are proof of that. Over the past 30 years, we have produced numerous artists who have performed on the international stage and become ambassadors of South African music and culture.”
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Importance of institutions
Mr Moneki said the institution's importance lies in its unwavering commitment to providing accessible, high-quality music education, especially to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“The academy not only trained musicians in the technical and theoretical aspects of music, but also instilled in them a deep appreciation of the cultural importance of South African jazz,” Moneki said.
“This has enabled many students to carry the light of our musical heritage to both local and international stages.”
Mr Moneki, who is a musician himself, said MAG's contribution to the development of artists in Gauteng and across South Africa cannot be overstated.
“Music has proven that it can be a powerful tool for social change, personal growth, and cultural preservation, and it continues to inspire future generations of artists.”
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Celebrating MAG's 30th Anniversary
MAG is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a series of events that first began in September and an effort to celebrate its rich history while paving the way for the future.
We provide valuable training in music performance and theory, from workshops and masterclasses where sessions are led by seasoned professionals, continuing the Academy's mission to provide world-class music education.
MAG also strengthens its international presence through cultural exchange programs.
These initiatives, including workshops in Germany and collaborations with international artists, highlight the Academy's role in promoting South African music and fostering global cultural connections.
There will also be collaborations with key partners such as SAMRO and the City of Ekurhuleni.
The Academy is also focused on securing strategic funding to sustain and strengthen its mission of providing accessible, high-quality music education.
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