Get Mags To Ghana 2019!

My name is Maganui Stewart and I am a musician/performer/teacher based in Christchurch. This year 2019, I plan to embark on a study tour of a lifetime.

I will ensure that the African drumming and dance I teach and share in New Zealand will be genuine, rooted in the culture it is developed in, shared and to communities that will benefit as well as pay tutors fairly who will teach and nurture us on our journey.

You see, I grew up in one of the poorest neighborhoods in New Zealand, Phillipstown, Christchurch. I was lucky enough to grow up with a lot of music and arts as a child from the encouragement of both my parents. Music brings me joy, and has blessed me with a skill to share, and ability to communicate this with ALL people. My passion is helping others discover the joy of music and dance through this accessible community music activity.

I currently teach a community drumming class there and have brought my skills as a musician, performer and dancer to the community I grew up in, to schools in low socio economic areas, to local craft markets next to where locals struggle with substance abuse and provide the opportunity for people to forget the stresses of everyday life and find solace in making music TOGETHER.

It's important to me that the drumming I share is not just played on African-style instruments, but represents the people who developed it and that it honours the cultural heritage of the places where it has grown.

This funding will enable me to cover flights, get vaccinated; pay for accommodation, food and travel to pay the local teachers what they are worth. I will travel with my friend and mentor Koffie Fugah, who is an African Master Drummer and dancer who grew up and trained in Ghana.

My journey with West African Music happened organically when I met Koffie Robert Fugah. Originally from Ghana, he has made New Zealand his home. Through our shared passion for music we have been able to bring music to schools and communities that don't often get these opportunities.

My own Samoan roots and heritage, and my formal training in music (jazz/classical) vocal and percussion can be shared in Ghana. I will offer my skills freely where there is interest, and I believe that this sharing will build bonds and understanding between our different cultures. However my primary aim is to ensure that the African Drumming I teach is true to the Ghanaian culture, of the highest quality, and reflects the broad and diverse musical tradition of the place where it developed.

Thank you in advance for making this dream become reality.

Maganui (Mags)