BUSKAID

Buskaid is an initiative offering high quality string tuition to impoverished youngsters at its Music School in Soweto. A registered charity in the UK, US and S Africa, Buskaid needs to raise £135,000 annually.

Among the difficult environments of the Soweto neighbourhoods, one of the poorest regions of South Africa, is an ensemble of 28 young people with talent and a love of classical music.

The Buskaid String Ensemble is regarded as a diamond in the rough that is slowly developing its true brilliance and potential.

They have performed with major orchestras such as the 'Soul' of France, and have played for such prominent figures as Queen Elizabeth II of England and the First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama.

The ensemble helps the Soweto community get ahead by offering an alternative to violence, drugs and alcohol.