One of Namibia’s most sought-after pianists Waldo Bosbreker Xoagub is on a mission to give back to the community by offering private master classes to aspiring keyboard players.
With over 25 years of experience, Xoagub, who is currently pursuing a Diploma in Jazz and Popular Music Studies, said he is entirely self-taught when it comes to mastering the art of playing the keyboard.
Through these master classes, he hopes to inspire and mentor the next generation of musicians by sharing his wealth of knowledge and passion for music.
“The reason I am saying self-taught music is in my blood is my father Gerson Doeseb is one of the best piano players in our country. That’s where my talent comes from.
A former student at the College of the Arts, my studies began in 2020. I was awarded a certificate in African Performing Arts in 2024, although the qualification was officially registered in 2023,” he said.
The talented pianist has shared the stage with the likes of Axue, the late King Phura, ML, Volcano Vibe and 4×4 Too Much Power.
Xoagub has performed with international acts like Sahara, Hugh Masekela, Davido and Mafikizolo.
“To become a great piano player, you need to practise regularly, develop your technique, and have a passion for the instrument.
“Practise scales, arpeggios, triads, speed and control over dynamics and articulation. In musicality, one must be able to convey the emotion and meaning of the music through their playing, bringing out the nuances of the piece and expressing their interpretation,” he said.
Learners will be taught classical piano with grading, different styles of playing, chord voicing, playing lead sheets, music theory and many more.
“I started my private piano lessons for a reason, which is for kids out there to help others discover a love for music, and develop skills which can be useful in life,” he noted.
There are benefits to playing the piano, as it offers long-term benefits, including improved cognitive function, enhanced fine motor skills, stress relief and increased self-expression. Additionally, it fosters discipline, perseverance and creativity.
“It takes about six months to be a well-trained piano player, but practising regularly is key to perfecting it in the end. It is all about combining education, theory and discipline,” he said.
Xoagub advised those planning on embarking on the journey of becoming pianists to research the trade.
“When you are a musician, you should know the theory holistically, the engagement and the accountability thereof… My father was always busy with his music, but he was there for me. I can remember he was always taking me to their band rehearsal with Ras Sheehama and the late Willy Mbuende,” the artist elaborated.
He added: “I didn’t believe it when we shared the same stage at the Windhoek Jazz Festival, World Music Day and the Windhoek /Ae //Gams Arts and Cultural Festival.
“Every time we rehearsed together, he was giving me a tough time with his 7th, 9th and 13th chords. I want to give thanks for the God-given talent that I have. That’s why I’m sharing it with the next generation”.
-slunyangwe@nepc.com.na