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Violinist eager to share experience with fellow musicians

TOASTED: Kabelo Monnathebe
TOASTED: Kabelo Monnathebe

Kabelo Monnathebe's dexterity with his fingers has taken him places.

The man from Soweto, who is part of the Buskaid music ensemble as a violinist, had his prowess toasted by the world when he featured on the coveted Ones To Watch show on CNN last week.

The 23-year-old joined Buskaid in 1999 and was awarded a scholarship through the group to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London between 2009 and 2013.

He says although it became difficult for him at times because home sickness often crept in, he enjoyed his stay in England.

"London is such a cosmopolitan place because of the different cultures you find there. I learnt a lot," Monnathebe says.

He is now back in South Africa and eager to share his experience with his fellow bandmates.

"The main thing that stood out for me there was how artists are making a living from their craft. Here in South Africa people have a lot of stereotypes.

"People here don't think you can actually make a living from being a violinist or a graphic designer."

He was introduced to the violin at a young age, thanks to his uncles who were members of the Soweto String Quartet. Although studying in England was a great experience, Monnathebe says he's not planning on returning there to establish himself as a violinist because he wants to grow his art here at home.

He spends some of his time imparting his knowledge to new and younger members of Buskaid. "On an average day I teach at Buskaid or do work with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra."

 

Buskaid was profiled along with Monnathebe on CNN after their unique sound caught the ear of Chinese pianist Lang Lang.

The ensemble from Soweto made up of 28 young musicians, who play various instruments, was founded by the British viola player Rosemary Nalden.

In 1992 Nalden founded a music school, and a few years later the Buskaid Ensemble was born.

Ones To Watch on CNN profiles masters of their craft whose careers are on a trajectory and why people all over the world should keep an eye on them.

tiwaneb@timesmedia.co.za

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