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“When you play music you can affect people’s emotions, you can affect the way they feel. It is an incredibly powerful force.”
Titia Blake initiated Masi Violin Outreach 17 years ago with Bishops Dean College. Recognizing the receptive nature of the children in Masiphumelele, Titia, using the Suzuki Method, created a modern, group-oriented teaching system. She retired in 2020, passing the baton to Nadiah Mony but remains a significant mentor. Titia, the founder of the method behind Masi Violin Outreach, continues to influence and inspire with her ethos, spirit, and innovative teaching style. Today, her arrangements still resonate with and are enjoyed by MVO students. She spends her time gigging with The Palmstrings and with her family and grandchildren.
“There is something powerful about giving the Youth something they are in control of; they have choices in this world, it is their journey, their expression.”
Masi Violin Outreach is led by Nadiah Mony, who was mentored by Titia Blake. With a BMus Degree in Classical Music from the University of Cape Town (SACM), Nadiah’s musical lineage includes her mother, a music teacher, her father, a musician, and her grandfather, Walter Mony, an internationally renowned violinist and conductor.
Teaching at School of Rock for six years, Nadiah is the head of the Strings, Vocal, and Little Wing department. She also teaches violin at Sun Valley Primary School and performs with her duo, Matt & Mony. Taking over Masi Violin Outreach in 2020, Nadiah’s wholehearted dedication to the program stems from her gratitude for the inspiration she draws from the children every day.
“Violin taught me how to behave, it gave me self-discipline.”
At 23 years old, Ayabonga Tshemese, a resident of Masiphumelele, joined Masi Violin Outreach at the age of 9. With 14 years of violin experience, Ayabonga works as a baker in the morning and leads the Masi Violin Quartet, The Palm-stringlets. His remarkable memory allows him to teach all parts of over 50 songs from memory. Ayabonga received teacher training from the Muzukidz program and is currently apprenticing with Nadiah Mony. He is also organizing a fundraising concert for Masi Violin Outreach.
“Music has taken me places I never imagined myself in, now I want to assure all goes well for the next generation.”
At 22 years old, Onke Mbopha, residing in Masiphumelele, has been with Masi Violin Outreach since the age of 10. With 11 years of violin experience, Onke’s interests extend beyond playing, showcasing a keen interest in the administrative and networking aspects of the project. As an apprentice to Nadiah Mony, Onke took initiative in organizing community school concerts, showcasing his versatility and attention to detail.
