The transformative power of music took center stage at the recent Bridges for Music Gala Dinner and auction, surpassing expectations by raising an impressive R256,000.00 in support of the Bridges Academy. This remarkable event was held at the globally renowned Marabi Jazz Club tucked away in the basement of the iconic Hallmark House Hotel, and showcased the exceptional generosity of attendees and their shared commitment to empowering underserved communities through music education.
Partnering with the Africa Rising Music Conference (ARMC), as it culminated in a spectacular finale the evening was a true celebration of the creative arts. The event featured special performances by Namakau Star, Wandile Mbambeni, German singer Aka Kellz and Bridges Academy graduate Fundi Mbambani. Esteemed guests, including Grammy Award winner Zakes Bantwini, and Robbie Brozin, and international delegates of the Berlin Music Commission, gathered at the event to celebrate the transformative power of music.
Zakes Bantwini, shared his personal experience and gratitude towards Bridges for Music. “Bridges for Music has helped many artists travel overseas for the first time and, more importantly, gain the skills to navigate the business. I hope it can continue to help other artists as it did to me,” he expressed.
The conference culminated in a spectacular finale at the renowned Marabi Club, where esteemed attendees came together for a special dinner event to raise funds for the Bridges for Music Academy.
This notable occasion marked the first fundraising event held by Bridges for Music in Johannesburg, as the organization proudly commemorates its 10-year anniversary of empowering young talent through music.
Founder of Bridges for Music, Valentino Barriosseta, expressed his gratitude for the community’s support, stating, “ARMC proved again why these community-building events are key to the future of any industry. We are very proud to have hosted our first fundraising event in Johannesburg with them, as we celebrate 10 years of empowering young talent through music.”
Bridges for Music has experienced remarkable expansion and diversification of its initiatives over the past ten years, further enhancing its impact and reach. One of the organization’s notable achievements during this period is the successful establishment of the Langa Music School. This exceptional institution offers free music education to underprivileged children, contributing to their development and empowerment.
Brozin, Co-Founder of Nando’s, also shared his thoughts on the importance of supporting Bridges for Music, saying, “It’s the time when creatives are waking up the country, which is why we at Nando’s couldn’t be prouder of supporting Bridges for Music for the last 5 years.”
The Bridges Academy is a pioneering institution that provides music education and mentorship to disadvantaged communities. By offering comprehensive training programs, access to resources, and opportunities for collaboration, the academy aims to uplift and empower aspiring musicians, producers, and DJs, enabling them to reach their full potential.
Through events like the Bridges for Music gala dinner and auctions, the organization continues to raise funds to expand its programs and provide even greater support to underserved communities. The generous contributions from attendees at the gala demonstrate a shared belief in the power of music to create positive change and transform lives.
Bridges for Music remains committed to its mission of fostering a thriving music industry that is inclusive, diverse, and accessible to all. By leveraging the power of music, the organization seeks to break down barriers, build bridges, and empower the next generation of talent.
