The Field Band Foundation in South Africa is active in developing brass bands in underprivileged areas in the townships. Brass playing has a very old tradition in these areas and interest is high in the Foundation’s work and the demand far outstrips the Foundation's resources.

This situation attracted the interest of the Norwegian Foreign Department which invited the FBF's national director Retha Cilliers and one of the foundation’s teachers, Mpho Mathabe, to visit the Norwegian Band Federation. The federation’s work in developing a strong brass band tradition in Norway by exposing young children to this type of music from an early age has resulted in a rich live music culture with composers writing music especially for this genre.

This cultural exchange, which also saw two members of the NBF visiting South Africa, resulted in the Norwegian Foreign Department generously donating R430 000 for the purchase of additional instruments for the Field Band Foundation. “This should allow a further 300 children access to musical training and development,” explains Retha Cilliers. “The reason for the support is that they believe, as we do, that artistic activity as part of general education enriches and empowers. If we want to rebuild our society this is an element which should not be underestimated in its ability to strengthen and uplift our youth. The Field Band Foundation in the long run strives to reach as many disadvantaged children as possible and with this donation it will be able to do just that.”

Details from Retha Cilliers on 083 775-4348 or Fax (031) 306-2166 or Tel/Fax: (031) 52-4672. E-mail: rethacil@iafrica.com