The Harry Crossley Foundation Trustees, Linda Whitfield-Fredman, Bernard Osrin and Dr. Andy Sherwood, recently attended the 2024 Reception of Harry Crossley Foundation and Doris Crossley Foundation students at University of Cape Town. Currently, HCF provides bursaries and merit scholarships to 90 postgraduate students, while DCF has awarded bursaries to 6 undergraduate students. This gathering offered a meaningful opportunity for our students to connect with the trustees, engage with each other, and share updates on their academic journeys.
Held at the South African College of Music’s Kirby Collection Room—a space that houses rare musical instruments from Southern Africa—the event featured a special presentation by Associate Professor Sylvia Bruinders, Head of Ethnomusicology and African Music at UCT. Professor Bruinders introduced the students to the unique instruments on display and encouraged them to explore and appreciate these pieces of African heritage.
A memorable highlight of the evening was a performance by a visiting student from Malawi alongside a UCT student. Together, they played the kora and sang beautifully, filling the room with traditional melodies that celebrated African heritage. It was a truly special experience to connect with our students, witness their growth firsthand, and deepen our appreciation for African music.