Wynberg-based St Joseph’s Christmas Band celebrated its 87th
| Published date | 24 April 2024 |
| Author | Roshan Abrahams roshan.abrahams@acm.co.za |
| Publication title | Southern Mail |
Albert September, 79, chairperson and his second cousin Ivan September, 83, president, shared their experiences and history of the popular band.
Albert said the thanksgiving service was successful and they were “blessed with beautiful weather”.
Albert said certificates were handed to all members for their dedication during the past Christmas band season.
“One of the highlights was the musical items rendered by the three bands present, namely Valiant Hearts, Palm Crusaders and St Joseph’s and then a combined musical item. The Wallace Witbooi Award was awarded to our musical director Franklin Le Keur.”
Albert said they practise and have meetings in Grassy Park with 95 registered members this season. “We do not say we are the best band but what I can say is that we play a unique type of music which draws competent members from other bands to join us.
“Our objectives have always been to be involved in community outreached programmes, for example, during our season which starts in December we perform at Christmas carols events, at old age homes, funerals when requested, and at all the areas where our elder members reside without charging.”
Ivan said he joined his father Andrew’s band, in Wynberg, when he was 8 years old. “My neighbour Wallace Witbooi, was 9 years old. Then a friend, Peter Nobel, 11, joined and together we formed the junior choir. And more people came to join.”
Ivan said Wallace could play the violin and the banjo and he was the only one who could read music. “At the age of 16 Wallace taught the older guys how to read music.”
He said: “Music was not my thing. I loved soccer and other sports. I did not play any other instrument but the guitar. I tried to play other instruments but the guitar stayed in my line. My dad played the violin.”
The band is still popular among the girls and boys and Ivan said it is important to encourage the youth to play music. “We train our youngsters so well and they are able to play in the Army band, Navy band and Correctional Services band,” he said.
“We accommodate different faiths and cultures and we play at churches, hospitals and old homes because I think music brings...
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