Lombok Community
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BRINGING MUSIC TO LOMBOK © 2014. Contributed by Kat Vallera
I was first introduced to Banu Sanusi, a secondary school that serves the villages of Sesela and Gunung Sari, three years ago during a visit to Lombok. Since then, I’ve been dedicated to fundraising and organising the “Music for Lombok” programme based out of my hometown of Chicago, Illinois. “Music for Lombok” is an organisation that aims to bring music, art, supplies and English teachers to an orphanage in Lombok, Indonesia. Our mission is to provide educational enrichment for some of the kindest and most deserving children in the world.
Volunteers Kat Vallera (left), Luke MacRoberts, Andrew Delneky and film maker, Scott O’Brien
dedication. The reason is because they feel comfortable around us, and motivated to learn. For children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to work with international teachers, let alone music teachers, the benefit to their overall education is immense.
I returned to Lombok this February with two volunteer music teachers, as well as a filmmaker, to officially launch the programme. We have since been joined by an additional volunteer English teacher as well. I couldn’t be more proud to announce The language and skills that the “Music “Music for Lombok” a total success. for Lombok” programme provides will give these children a step up in life, and the aptitude they need for future scholarly and career endeavours. The children are well aware that education is the road to success and this offers them a chance to rise out of poverty.
“Music for Lombok” has proven to be an incredible experience for both students and volunteers. At first the children were very shy. They had never interacted with foreigners for extended periods of time, and they weren’t quite sure what to make of us. However, their attitude has changed since all of us volunteers have been living at the school, socialising with them regularly, and interacting with the children both in and out of the classroom. Ask any of the children at Banu Sanusi to tell you about Luke, Andrew, Kat, Scott, or Anya… they will light up with stories! We have built incredible bonds and friendships with the students who study at Banu Sanusi and the children have really come out of their shells. A teachers’ favourite is Harry, who dances and sings like a natural born superstar! All of the children are enthusiastic and eager to learn. We hear them practicing their music and English with great
Why Music? Music is a universal language. Music allows us to communicate and connect with the children like no other medium. It allows us to be creative, fun, and to inspire. I think the number one thing we have noticed during this run of the programme is the children’s eagerness to step up and participate. As music teachers from the United States, we have had our share of students who haven’t shown dedication or simply didn’t care. However, the children at Banu Sanusi have jumped at the chance to take guitar, piano and singing lessons. It is an opportunity that would not otherwise have been available to them, and it is evident that they refuse to take it for granted. Never have we heard so much practicing! From sunrise until late night, the children retreat into groups to sing songs we have taught them, or to practice their scales and other exercises. The best part is that
they are teaching each other what they’ve learned in their lessons, so the knowledge has been spreading through the school like wildfire! Volunteers have benefited greatly as well. “Music for Lombok” has offered us the opportunity to experience a culture and perspective not afforded to typical tourists. It is that of complete dedication and full immersion that has really set “Music for Lombok” apart from other international programs. When we first arrived, we felt like celebrities! We couldn’t walk down the street without being surrounded by dozens of laughing children and curious locals. It didn’t take long before we were accepted and welcomed by the entire community. They have demonstrated open-mindedness and willingness to teach us all about their customs. Last week, we were invited to a Sasak wedding, which was a unique experience for everyone involved. We appreciate the continued friendship and hospitality that the people of Gunung Sari have given us.
This is just the beginning of “Music for Lombok”. The programme has proven itself a worthy cause, and there is no doubt that it will continue to grow. We hope to bring even more teachers and supplies next year, and perhaps raise enough money to build Banu Sanusi a library. Continued on Page 44