Growing Minds: One Melody at a Time
Music boosts brain function, memory and language skills while fostering emotional expression, empathy and confidence. Through group activities like bands, it encourages teamwork and cultural awareness. Learning an instrument builds discipline and focus, supporting academic success. But, above all, music inspires creativity and joy, nurturing a lifelong appreciation for the arts and a deeper understanding of the world around us.
School of Rock - Inspiring Youth
Recently opened in Parktown North, School of Rock is already inspiring the youth in Johannesburg to enter the world of music. Jericho Hendricks, the school’s Music Director, said: “The first thing music can teach a young person is patience. Music is something that you need to work on every single day. The second thing is teaching an appreciation for the arts. The biggest thing that we’re trying to achieve is to encourage youth to express themselves.”
Furthermore, sixteen-year-old Maddison Smith is a student and band member at School of Rock. “I felt I had the musical knowledge and just needed the instrument and an instructor to make it work and refine my skills,” she said. It’s a music school that encourages her; an environment where it’s easy to make mistakes without letting it define her. Additionally, Maddison said: “Being in a band is something I’ve wanted to do, but people at school aren’t like me and they don’t really have an interest in instruments.” Subsequently, she believes music is something that carries you through life and that it can change your mood in an instant.
National Eisteddfod Academy - Shaping Protégés
Another musical institute dedicated to youth empowerment through the arts is the National Eisteddfod Academy (NEA). Here, young performers are invited to develop and showcase their artistic skills in a safe and nurturing environment.
The CEO of the NEA, Dr Francois van der Berg, said: “The NEA was created in the belief that access to and participation in the arts are basic human rights, rooted in freedom of expression and creative thought. Artistic expression stirs the mind, unlocks creativity and evokes deep emotions. Through music, dance, acting, painting or writing, the arts enable people to connect with something larger than themselves.”
Grade 12 Penryn College scholar, Sinhle Mona, won the NEA’s Gold Medal in 2025, following her Most Inspiring Performer award in 2024. However, her journey with music began in the school choir at age six. She remembers how this brought her a sense of joy and belonging.
“Those formative years laid the foundation for my future success and instilled in me a love for music that continues to drive me. The NEA was a turning point in my career. Through this competition, I developed a sense of discipline and perseverance that has been invaluable in my journey as a singer, allowing me to pursue my passion for music with greater purpose and direction.”
Consequently, from scientific theories to real world examples, it is clear to see how important music education for youth is in this day and age. Whether you want to strum it out, sing with your soul, or tap along to your favourite artists, music grows minds, one melody at a time.
Images: Victoria Hill/Supplied
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