Molefe Mohamid-Mitchell

Violin

Q. Why is it important to learn an instrument?

“Learning an instrument can have many positive effects on an individual's development. The process of learning teaches patience, structure, awareness and many other valuable skills that will apply to many obstacles that life will present. Having an avenue for habitual practice can also help build self-confidence and independence through long term goals and self-regulation. There is also often a great community aspect that comes with being a musician which will usually lead to more social development, interaction, compassion and empathy for others as playing with and performing for people is often quite a vulnerable experience.”

Molefe (Mo) Mohamid-Mitchell is a violinist and composer based in Toronto.

He plays a mixture of acoustic music inspired mostly by traditional music forms which include the likes of Hungarian, Celtic, Indian Classical, Bluegrass, Folk and Swing. Most of these influences are brought together and showcased through the platform of swing in Mo’s current band who play primarily in the style of Django Reinhardt.

In his earlier years he studied classical through the Suzuki method as well as blues/folk music before stepping into the realm of jazz and more improvised music, eventually continuing on to study at Humber College’s Bachelor in Performance program.

When it comes to teaching, he aims to maintain a balance between musicality and technique. Working with students on an individual to basis to meet their needs, he believes that keeping the joy of playing music present is vital towards growth into a well-rounded musician.