By Rinelda Mouton
Music teacher Petrus Haraseb says the arts and music industry in Namibia is still not taken seriously enough, despite the important role it plays in youth development and community building.
He said one of the biggest challenges facing the industry is the lack of resources and financial support for music education, adding that many talented students cannot afford instruments or lessons.
Haraseb started teaching music around 2013 at the Otjiwarongo Arts Centre (OTAC).
“During that time, I was teaching and mentoring young people in music. After gaining experience there, I started my own music school called Morning Star Music School, which I later rebranded into Dominion Sound Arts Academy. For the past seven years, the academy has continued to grow as a place where we teach, mentor, guide, and help develop musical talent in people of different ages,” Haraseb said.
He teaches guitar, keyboard, vocal train- ing, and music theory. Haraseb also helps students understand music performance, stage confidence, and creativity in music.
In addition, he runs vocal coaching programmes where choir groups, solo artists, and worship teams are prepared for competitions, performances, concerts, and album recordings. Through these programmes, artists improve their vocal techniques, harmony, confidence, breathing control, and overall stage performance.
“My journey as a music teacher started in church youth ministry when I was still young. Music became part of my life from an early age, and over the years I developed a passion not only for performing but also for teaching others. Being a music teacher has brought great joy and purpose into my life. One of the greatest rewards is see- ing people I trained performing with confidence on stage, in church, and in the community. Watching students grow in their talent and believing in themselves gives me happiness and motivation to continue teaching,” he added.
He said over the years he has seen music positively change many lives. Some students, he said, gained confidence, discipline, and direction through music, while others discovered their talent and became performers, worship leaders, and music teachers themselves.
“Music has helped many young people stay focused and away from negative influences. To me, teaching means empowering people. It is not only about learning notes or instruments, but also about building confidence, character, and giving hope through music.”
Haraseb urged artists to invest in learning more about music. He said many artists have natural talent, but proper training can help them improve their skills and compete at a higher level both locally and internationally.
“Natural talent is important, but training helps an artist grow professionally. Learning music gives artists a better understanding of vocals, instruments, performance, timing, stage presentation, and music theory. Training also helps musicians become disciplined and confident in their work. I would like to encourage young people to believe in their talents and never stop learning. Music is powerful; it brings people together, heals, educates, and inspires communities. Studying music professionally can also help improve the quality and growth of the industry.”
He added that for the industry to grow, there should be more investment in arts education, music workshops, and talent development programmes.
“Local artists need more support from businesses, communities, media, and government institutions. We also need more events, training opportunities, recording support, and platforms that promote Namibian talent. I am grateful to everyone who has supported my journey. My goal is to continue mentoring and developing the next generation of musicians.”
