Challenges in establishing and sustaining a rural Community Music School: A case study of rural community music projects
Community Music Projects were established to fill a gap in music education in the high- poverty areas of South Africa, a rift caused by Apartheid. This study investigates strategies for establishing and sustaining community music projects (CMPs) within the context of the Western Cape, South Africa. Recognising the vital role that community music plays in promoting social cohesion, education, and cultural participation, the research aimed to identify key factors that contribute to the sustainability of such initiatives. A qualitative research design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with the project leaders of three community music projects operating in diverse socio-economic settings. The interviews focused on six central topics: funding and partnerships, infrastructure and resources, music programme structure, opportunities and achievements, challenges and community outreach. The data was analysed thematically to identify recurring patters and critical success factors. Findings revealed that the sustainable CMPs have diversified funding models, strong community partnerships, adaptive leadership, and a balance between artistic and administrative priorities. The research contributes to the understanding of the important role Community Music (CM) plays in offering pathways for creativity and social transformation in underserved, rural communities.
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