The ‘travelling minstrel’ shares her music

MUSIC gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything for the new Felixton College music teacher Victoria Erasmus.

Affectionately referred to as ‘Vicky’, the lively 33-year-old exudes passion and natural talent for music, instruments and life.

‘I never planned to be a music teacher, but there has been such a turn of events and I officially have the best job in the world. It is hard work but it is nothing short of amazing,’ said Vicky.

‘Music, life and light are what I have to bring to the classroom, I mean, what’s not to love about that?’

‘When class starts, you just see how the children’s faces light up. Honestly, people love music and we just don’t get enough opportunity to express ourselves that way,’ she said.

Born and raised in Mtunzini and a former St Catherine’s pupil, Vicky later graduated semi-cum-laude in English, Musicology and Compositional Technique from Rhodes University.

‘Arts and Culture is so sidelined in the education system these days and it is sad that when there are changes, music is the one subject that is always slowly being pushed out, despite it being so fundamental to a child’s understanding, confidence and expression,’ explained Vicky.

Apart from her work at Felixton College, Vicky also teaches music at Sugar Tots Crèche, Mtunzini Pre-Primary and Primary and owns the ‘School of Rock’ which offers guitar lessons for kids and mums.

‘I also offer private lessons to 30 students. So I’m really always busy and totally consumed in my music,’ she said.

Unable to read, Vicky started playing the piano at age three and not long after started teaching at 13.

‘My first piano teacher; Margaret Dickinson who only had her Grade 3 in music, was the most phenomenal and passionate influence in my study of music and definitely someone I would want to emulate.

‘Music is more than playing keys; it is a part of your life. Often when life throws you emotionally off track, the piano somewhat becomes a catharsis process,’ she said.

Professionally an English and Maths teacher, Vicky had been out of South Africa for 10 years travelling and teaching all over the world and returned in the middle of last year.

When she isn’t drifting along with music notes, Vicky loves a good book by Tom Robbins and a great Korean meal.

‘I’m also a member of the Cycle Club and we mountain bike 30-40km’s every Saturday,’ she said.

Excited about life, Vicky makes sure to optimise every day.

‘My guilty pleasure is chocolate and dancing to Queen,’ she chuckled.