We started the day by heading to the JTR, it was our first day and therefore we were all surprised by the kids and how they swarmed us. We taught the JSS (Junior Secondary School) classes which were sorted into ability and therefore the ages ranged from around 9-16. At lunch we headed to Balenta and were treated to a vegetable pastie which filled all but Toby's stomach. Finally we headed to the Blind School to perform an outreach concert which was well received, they then sang to us with some very impressive singing this surprised us all and touched our hearts.
James Manning
The first day at the Ballanta Music Academy was one full of uncertainty for us musicians; having never seen the place before we were bound to be surprised. However, what surprised us more were the students! Their abilities ranged from complete beginners to intermediate players, and thankfully we found success in teaching them all.
After a quick lunch of vegetable pasties we headed off to the "Milton Margai School for the Blind" to perform an outreach concert. Maddie's rendition of Danny Boy was a hit with the crowd, in much contrast to the ensemble performance of Toto's Africa, for which we are thankful for the presence of a deaf school next door.
The school choir blew us away, their musicality and trust in the music shining through as they blasted a few oldies like "Tiptoe by the Window" as well as a traditional African song. It was an extremely moving experience that we will remember forever.
Some of us musicians went back to Ballanta for a rehearsal which included a funky Disco medley and a choir rehearsal for a Sierra Leone song titled "Woko u lol woko", and it was about a man who complains about someone who took his money and criticises him.
Today was full of unforgettable moments, and we are looking forward to the next few days.
Nate :)
