For some of its members, the Taman Suropati Chamber (TSC) community is not only a place to learn the violin or to play in an orchestra, but the starting point for a better life.

Hendra Surya Agustian is a violin instructor and member of TSC, whose fortune turned after joining the group, which gets together at the Taman Suropati park in Menteng, Central Jakarta, for open-air practice sessions.

“I had come from my home village to look for opportunities in Jakarta. At one point, I was selling pecel lele [fried catfish], and begging for a short while,” said the native of Bojonegoro, East Java, on Sunday.

With neither skills nor interest in playing the violin, he ended up taking a job fixing them, which slowly generated within him an interest in the wooden string instrument.

He was introduced to the TSC community in 2008, which is when he began to earnestly learn to play the violin.

“I practiced so often that I [strained the nerves] on my neck and was forced to rest for two months,” Hendra recalls.

Two years later, Hendra was asked to become an instructor with the TSC. He also became a private tutor, earning himself some extra money, as violin instructors are few and far between.

After mastering the violin, he wanted to learn how to write musical notes and arrangements. The TSC again blessed him with an opportunity to study.

“The parents of one of my students were kind enough to offer to completely pay for my musical education at STKIP Panoe Banoe, so I’m very grateful,” Hendra said.

Hendra completed his education and continues to be an instructor with the TSC years later, much to the appreciation of its founder.

Agustinus Esti Sugeng Dwi Harso, also known as Ages, established the TSC in 2007 and has been teaching and leading the ensemble ever since.

Ages holds Hendra in high regard and expects him to be part of the next generation of TSC leaders.

“I wanted to provide an alternative space for street musicians, because they are often stigmatized. The community also provides recreational activities for the members outside of going to malls,” Ages said.

Many TSC students aim to hone their violin skills at the TSC, as they lack the funds to attend musical school.

The community’s main concept was to provide a creative and educational space for anyone, Ages explained. The group also champions its diversity, with members from various age groups and backgrounds.

“Another reason is to keep traditional regional songs alive, which I think are on the brink of being forgotten,” Ages said.

People can register to join the TSC community for a fee of Rp 150,000 (US$10.64).

“But if they aren’t able to pay the fee, they are still welcome to join,” said Mimi, who takes care of TSC’s administrative matters.

The TSC has reached a degree of prominence and skill that sees it occasionally perform in concert.

“We are currently practicing for a concert at the Ismail Marzuki Park [TIM] on July 27, with the theme being movie soundtracks,” Ages said.

While the violin is the main instrument taught, some more experienced TSC musicians play the saxophone, flute, double bass or keyboard. Practice sessions at the park are held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday.

Many of the skilled musicians have been members of the group from young age on after joining for personal reasons.

Tiara Sadira has been with the ensemble for 10 years, since she was in second grade. She is a violinist and vocalist in the group.

“I wanted to find an activity to spend my time on Sundays, so I joined the community. I have found new friends and learned new things,” Tiara said. (tru)

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