Stellenbosch University (SU) music maestro, Christopher Njapha, is proof that hard work pays off.Njapha, who graduated with a BMus degree from SU in 2020 under the tutelage of Babette Roosenschoon in SU’s Music Department, has been accepted to study at the Manhattan School of Music (MSM) in New York. The fact that South African jazz stalwart Hugh Masekela studied classical trumpet at MSM is also a further inspiration for Njapha to attend this prestigious school.“It makes me feel so good to know that Hugh Masekela – someone who looks like me – practised music at these kinds of institutions. He was a trailblazer for so many South African musicians because he showed us that it is possible to make a name for yourself,” said Njapha. Njapha said growing up, he always loved music “a little more than others” but it was through playing the cello that he discovered his passion for playing a musical instrument. Ironically, the cello was the musical instrument he started playing “late in life” compared to the violin and the piano. Njapha only started playing the cello at the age of 17 in matric – a year before coming to SU. Prior to that he played the violin and the piano, was a member of his church choir in his hometown in Durban and was even part of the KwaZulu-Natal Youth Orchestra. “Once I started playing the cello everything fell into place for me. When you pick the right path for yourself things tend to flow at a fast pace,” he said.Growing up, Njapha watched Israeli cellist Mischa Maisky on downloaded Youtube videos where he garnered a real appreciation for the sound of the cello.“I watched Maisky play this Bach Cello Suite No. 1 in G-major and would be in awe. I would just sit and absorb the sound – captivated and invigorated by this instrument that made me feel at home,” he said.For Njapha, the opportunity to study at the MSM is the culmination of years of hard work.“Playing the cello has been an intense and focused journey that required hard work. Now I want to cultivate a life for myself in music in Manhattan and be an inspiration to South African children who also dream of becoming musicians. Young artists need role-models to show them what it takes to be a performer on the highest level and if they strive for excellence, their dreams are possible,” said Njapha.Despite being accepted to study at MSM, Njapha needs $46 000 (approximately R657 152) to cover his expenses to stay in the Big Apple in September this year. If you would like to help Njapha finance his dream, go to: https://www.airfunding.net/pr…