1 minute read
Ramahuma Brass Band still equips the youth
By Elmon Tshikhudo
Fourteen years down the line, and the Ramahuma Brass Band continues to dish out the same enjoyable, lively music it is so well known for, to the delight of its many devoted fans.
Advertisement
On Saturday, 25 February, they lived up to their reputation as guest artists during a church function at Maniini. Ecstatic fans danced to the energetic sounds of their favourite band, begging for more afterwards.
The Ramahuma Brass Band, formed in 2009, is the brainchild of the leadman and founder, Mr Patrick Ramahuma. The group of 25 members, based at Ha-Ramahantsha outside Louis Trichardt, have become so popular over the years that no function is complete without their performing.
Keeping the fans dancing to their music is not their sole ambition, however. These members also make a point of taking youths off the street and equipping them with music skills.
Ramahuma said everything came about because of his love of brass music and the youth of his province. “I am a staunch ZCC member, where brass music is one of the main genres. I grew up listening to this music and fell deeply in love with it. In 2009, I assembled some youths from my village and surrounding villages, got some instruments and hired a tutor who taught them how to play. By 2010, we had a full-fledged band and started performing live at events,” he said.
Ramahuma has trained more than 30 youths over the years, who are now skilled in playing brass instruments. “Besides training them as musicians, the band has also become an institution where the youth receive life coaching. We have time to talk about issues of life. We teach them how to grow into responsible men who would take care of their families. We are succeeding in moulding them, and we still aim to help many more in future,” he said.
Moloko Masipa, who is a tuba player and has been with the band since its inception, said it was the band that had nurtured him to be the man he was today. “This is a family where we are taught all aspects of life, and I will always be indebted to Ramahuma,” he said. Youths interested in learning how to play instruments can contact Ramahuma directly on 064 950 9210.
