(Qadasi & Maqhinga.
Pic by Simanga Zondo)
Awesome Africa International Arts Festival has partnered
with iLembe District Municipality and Onexus Music Business Solutions to offer
musicians in the iLembe region a two- week music business programme. Primarily
funded by National Lotteries Commission (NLC) under their Arts, Culture and
Heritage.
This first week of these workshops took place on September 19,
20 and 21. 80 musicians from throughout ilembe District gathered at the Luthuli
Museum in Groutville, eager to learn more about the music business. Topics such
as setting goals, contracts and agreements, social media and the performance
industry were discussed. Aside from the facilitators from Onexus, guests such
as artists Mbuso Khoza, Qadasi and Maqhinga and studio owner Malcolm Nhleko were
invited to give the musicians their best tips and advice.
“Having received my first record deal at the age of 18,
during my last year of school, I had almost no knowledge of the music industry
and the struggles, and work involved in 'making it'. This was a new adventure
and my first couple of years was spent learning the ropes and grasping a basic
understanding of music business, especially with regards to financial
implications, tax requirements, and the various laws pertaining to the
industry. After five years as a professional musician, I have learnt a great
deal and continue to learn everyday. Ones understanding of 'music business' can
either make or break a career,” says Qadasi.
The programme will continue on September 26 and cover many
more topics, such as copyrights and marketing. Next week’s programme will also
include a panel discussion on indigenous music and the use of traditional
instruments and songs with guests Mbuso Khoza, Dr. Sazi Dlamini and Lu Dlamini.
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