Lottery Cash Is Music To Johannesburg Philharmonic

CLASSICAL musicians have a harmonious future thanks to government's decision to throw its weight (and money) behind one of the country's most respected orchestras. After years of uncertainty, the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra (JPO) has just become the third state-funded orchestra. Managing Director Shadrack Bokaba is confident that the JPO is here to stay.

It won't always be plain sailing, but at least the ball has been set in motion to not only keep a significant number of talented musicians employed but also to ensure that the city has a premier orchestra.

"Fundraising was always going to be an issue, especially if you did not have government supporting you," said Bokaba. The National Lotteries Distribution Fund's recent cash injection of R7 million has gone a long way to easing the burden and more corporates are coming to the funding party.

Usually reluctant to contribute to the arts, corporates have to date added R6 million to the JPO coffers and several hotels provide accommoda¬tion for world-class musicians.

"When I was asked to join the JPO as development director I knew deep down that the situation had to change; we had to be full time some how. I knew it cannot be government or corporates alone - it must be a combination of both," said Bokaba, also a first violinist in the orchestra.

The JPO's best trump card is patron Cyril Ramaphosa, known for stepping in to help secure R l.5 million for the JPO to stage its fourth season last year. Bokaba said Ramaphosa has opened many doors to crucial corporate funding.

"Trying to keep the orchestra afloat is not all about holding out a begging bowl. We also continue to have concerts to help us be financially sustainable," he said.

The JPO starts its first season in two weeks' time at the Linder Auditorium, its current home. It has also been offered new premises at the Sci-Bono Centre in Newtown, but will have to first raise funds for renovations. Bokaba added that the new space will eventually also house a training orchestra. -- www.jpo.co.za