Daily Maverick published an article about the imminent launch of a national orchestra, with questions being asked about its structure and funding by industry players and parliamentarians. This opinion piece was submitted following publication of the ...
The past two years’ Covid-19 conditions worsened the trying times faced by many a person in the world. It is now a matter of public record that across the world, the arts are amongst industries that were most affected by the pandemic.
This means that the establishment of Mzansi NPO is a matter of established policy — not an option — which enjoys endorsements across the political divide. But what then is the vision of Mzansi NPO? There are objective records which prove that there were consultations with various role players in the arts. And that such consultations were comprehensive and transparent.Mzansi NPO will be put together through a similar model used by our national sports teams. The best of the best, locally and internationally, will be called to be part of the orchestra whenever there is a local or international programme on the cards.
An orchestra that brings unity, supports artists, enhances talent development by working closely with local and internationally renowned industry professionals, while also working towards steps of getting the industry back on its feet should be applauded. While we call for a close working relationship within the industry, we are also mindful that there are sceptics critical of the project and its intentions.
We understand that Bongani Tembe has been appointed as CEO of the Mzansi NPO and is on a board of directors along with Justice Leona Theron, Wendy Luhabe and Prof Muxe Nkondo. How were the CEO and directors appointed? Were the positions advertised by the DSAC?Does the Mzansi NPO expect to use musicians from the existing orchestras and will the orchestras be compensated? You say in the report attached, “The NPO will contribute to the funding of regional orchestras and other related entities”.