THE KZN Youth Wind Band recently returned from New York full of pride after winning gold at the Youth Wind Band Festival at Carnegie Hall.
Three Empangeni High musicians in the 53-member band made a significant contribution to the success.
EHS learners Palesa Ndelela and James Swan formed and integral part of the band’s trumpet component, while music educator Bongani Ndlovu provided some depth with his bass clarinet.
Ndlovu said their success is a major achievement for the province as well as the country.
‘Carnegie Hall is the pinnacle of classical music performance, so to debut there was just out of this world.
‘Our conductor Russell Scott kept on emphasising how none of us as individuals could pull off something like this without everyone doing their part and doing it well.’
The KZN outfit competed against four other American bands at the festival.
‘It was a huge privilege to be able to be part of something like this for everyone who was involved.
‘These bands and ensembles had far more resources and also many instruments which our band members hadn’t even seen in real life, so that was pretty cool.’
The band scored 86% overall and managed to stay in tune in 7 degrees Celsius conditions.
EHS Principal Zelma Matthee was ecstatic about the contribution the Zululanders made in taking gold.
‘I am over the moon, this is awesome. I am very proud of our trio.’
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