The School of Music, also known as the East London Music Institute, is celebrating 30 years of music education since it was founded in January 1995 by principal teacher Widor du Toit.
For three decades, the school has helped students grow their musical talents, from playing piano to developing strong singing voices.
Du Toit, a passionate and experienced music educator, primarily teaches piano, but his love for music extends to vocal training, keyboard, and church organ instruction. Over the years, he has created a welcoming space for students of all ages — from as young as six to as seasoned as 80.
Reflecting on the institute’s 30-year journey, Du Toit remains humble yet proud.
“The real reward is watching students grow — not just in music, but in confidence, discipline, and creativity.
“Through the grace of the Lord, I firmly believe the School of Music is a cultural asset to our city and may it prosper for many more years to come,” he said.
One of his students, Yun-chien Chang, 19, is currently studying at grade 5 level, shared how the school had deepened his appreciation for classical music.
“I was influenced by family friends to play piano. My mom is the one who signed me up for piano lessons. It has taught me to become more hardworking, patient and really good at balancing my music and schoolwork. I would love to, one day, influence other children to do piano and possibly achieve higher levels that will hopefully open opportunities for me outside of the Eastern Cape,” he said.
For 16-year-old Zha Cheng, who is already at grade 9 level, Du Toit’s teachings have played a crucial role in building his confidence and technical skill.
“He is a really good teacher. He is strict, but it works. I have learned to concentrate better, and I always have so much fun in our lessons, which has grown my love for piano,” Cheng said.
Even the youngest students are thriving. Moagi Makgaila, is just six years old and in grade R, beams with excitement at every lesson. His father, Finico, said, he has seen a big difference in his son’s behaviour since starting his piano lessons.
“I’m proud of my son. He used to struggle with concentrating. He has a routine after school that he follows so that he can practise his piano lessons. He has since become more disciplined. He now follows his routine without me telling him what to do,” Makgaila said.
Nine-year-old Zheyi Xu, a grade 7 level student, has fallen in love with the piano so much that he dreams of sharing the experience with his loved ones.
“I would like to influence my mom so that one day we can play piano together,” Xu said.
In celebration of this milestone, the School of Music will be hosting a concert on Monday May 19 at the Guild Theatre. The admission fee will be R100 for adults, and R20 for children.
