Soweto Kinch visits Lyons Street centre

by Steve Pool

In December jazz saxophone player Soweto Kinch gave a breathtaking demonstration of his skills. He rounded off his set with a near perfect improvised performance of the theme tune from The Simpsons… nice.

His visit marked the end of a training course for local artists interested in using their talents to work in education and the community. Birmingham-based Soweto talked about the barriers he has overcome to work as a professional musician. His advice to the group was to stick at things and make the most of every opportunity. Lungani Sibanba, the programme organiser was pleased with the training and told the Messenger,

"This type of focused training gives us the opportunity to develop a strong team to help deliver a programme of activities to inspire the Burngreave community."

Creative Burngreave have funded a number of cultural projects through a new grants fund. Rashida Hassanali, Community Adult Education Co-ordinator for St Catherine's and Firs Hill School has secured funding for parents and carers to work with a photographer. Parents and carers at Firs Hill School will get the chance to take part in drumming workshops. Rashida said,

"We wanted to arrange exciting opportunities for parents and children to learn together. Parents have been asking for this kind of thing. It's great to have the chance to make it happen."

The second round of the Creative Burngreave funding will commence in April. Grants are available to individuals and groups. If you’re interested in funding for a project, or finding out about training opportunities, contact Lungani Sibanba on 221 1891.