Making Music, Making Memories
The story of Simple Sounds of Music
A Lifelong Love Affair with Music
Theresa’s journey with music didn’t start in a classroom; it was woven into her family’s fabric. Her mother was an organist, her grandfather played multiple instruments, and her sister could sing like a songbird. It was inevitable — Theresa was born to make music.
She never formally studied music at university, but that didn’t stop her. In 2014, she took various courses to master different instruments and read music. In fact, she even developed her own program to help students transition from piano to guitar or any other instrument with ease. Now, five years into teaching, she’s sharing her knowledge with the next generation of musicians.
From One Student to Many
Like all great things, Simple Sounds of Music started small — just a keyboard, a guitar, and one eager student. That first student was left-handed but had to learn on a right-handed guitar. Not one to back down from a challenge, Theresa flipped her own guitar upside down, sat in front of a mirror, and taught herself to play backwards so she could teach him properly.
Fast forward to today, and she has 21 students, teaching a range of instruments, from classical guitar and piano to xylophone and harmonica (even offering online harmonica lessons to students in Johannesburg!).
Striking the Right Chord in Competitions
2024 marked another milestone — Theresa’s first time entering students in the Eisteddfod! Seven students competed, bringing home one gold and six silver medals.
Why Learning an Instrument is Worth It
Learning an instrument isn’t just about playing a song — it teaches dedication, patience, and perseverance. “Every instrument takes its toll on your body,” Theresa explains. “Your fingers will hurt, your hands will cramp, but the reward is priceless when you finally master a song.”
MEET THE FUTURE ROCKSTARS
Tyler Groenewald (8 years old)
Has been playing guitar for two years, inspired by childhood memories of strumming a toy guitar.
Loves learning new songs the most.
Favourite songs to play? Thunderstruck and Greensleeves.
Wants to be a musician when he grows up.
Kara du Plessis (10 years old)
Started playing guitar after receiving a classical guitar for her 7th birthday.
Loves learning new notes and finds them “super interesting.”
Favourites? Twinkle Twinkle Little Star on guitar and Vader Jakob on piano.
Dreams of becoming a music teacher one day.
Simple Sounds of Music offers:
- Classical, acoustic and electric guitar
- Piano and keyboard
- Percussion for preschoolers
- Singing
- Harmonica (online lessons available!)
Contact: Theresa Fourie
079 400 6940