OUDTSHOORN The congregation of St Simon’s was once part of the inner city community but, being Coloured, was forced to abandon its property and church when the community was moved to the barren ground of Bridgeton on the fringe of the town.

It, nevertheless, held together and continues to thrive. The Church Council has always made its facilities available for music of one kind or another, so the seeds of a Music School are there. The Council is also aware of the challenge presented by the Klein Karoo National Arts Festival. This is now a most successful annual event in Oudtshoorn but does not draw upon the local talent nearly enough, because it is untutored. The development of a music school would enhance the life of both the congregation and the wider community. The Minister of Arts and Culture, the Hon Dr Pallo Jordan, and the Hon Mr Cameron Dugmore, MEC of Education for the Western Cape at the time, are enthusiastic about the proposal and have pledged their support. The proposed St Simon Music School would immediately be governed by the Trustees of the Anglican Church (George Diocese ) In future, however, it will have its own Board, which will be democratically elected and will represent the broad community of Oudtshoorn. The Art School will register as a separate entity and as a section 21 company. The 20 page Project Proposal includes architect’s drawings by Johan Smit ( Pty Ltd ) and a business plan that looks to an expenditure of some R 12 270 000. 00.

Contact address

Rev Claude Appels

St Simon Art School ( CPSA Anglican )

Corner Duif and Kudu Street

Bridgton

PO Box 823

6625

Tel/ fax 044 274 9616

Cell 082 4131 577

Email: stsimonsmusic@anglicanboardofeducation.org