If you hear soothing piano sounds at Village Mall these days, follow the sound to the mall’s recent piano addition in the court at the Mugg n Bean entrance, and most likely you will find January Shabangu, an employee at a fast food outlet playing in his off-time.

January Shabangu (30)

The 30-year-old January was one of the first people to try out the piano that was placed in the mall for shoppers to play on. Self-taught and passionate about music, he takes every opportunity to let his fingers glide over the keys.
“Ten years ago, I fell in love with the piano. I was always watching the piano player at church and I decided to learn. I watched carefully and then I sat down and played. The church piano player gave me some lessons, and since then I have been playing at the church myself. I am so happy about the piano at Village Mall now,” he said. He can’t read sheet music and plays by ear.
January, who lives with his wife and three small children in Atteridgeville, has been working as a maintenance employee at the fast food outlet for the past six years.
“I have loved music since I could remember. I love to sing, and I am now learning to play drums. I would also like to learn guitar if I can find someone to teach me,” he says.
So next time you hear a soothing melody at the mall, go see if January is at the piano keys and say hello.
The piano is located at the mall’s recent addition of the ‘Take a moment and recharge’ corner that provides plug points for device charging and for shoppers to enjoy a rest.
All Village Mall visitors are welcome to play the piano.