Sheldon Vetter – whose passion for music runs all the way to his fingertips – has made it his lifelong ambition to bring joy to those around him.
My introduction to the piano started at age nine when my parents decided to send me for piano lessons. My first teacher was an elderly lady called Mrs Reeves, and when she passed away Dave Wellard tutored me up until Grade 6 through the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music in London.
At this point I lost touch with my music due to the various responsibilities at school – I played 1st team rugby and 1st team cricket, and was elected headboy of Marist Brothers St Henry’s. Thanks to my parents, Neville and Barbara, I experienced a happy school life for which I am forever grateful.
However darker days were just around the corner. After school I sank into the abyss of deep depression and anxiety, and eventually dropped out of university as I felt worthless. I thought my life had ended until two humble men from my church, the New Apostolic Church, came into my life as angels sent by God. Keith Gilpin and David Dettmar built up my confidence by aligning my mind and thoughts to the Triune God, thus steering me away from the negativity of depression and anxiety. I then spent a year in the South African Navy which taught me much discipline.
The renaissance of my music began in the New Apostolic Church where I exercised my talents as a baritone soloist, pianist, organist, choir member and eventually choir conductor. At a later stage – to earn extra pocket money – I started playing in restaurants and hotels providing background piano music.
In September 1999 I married Maureen Prinsloo, but after six years our blissful marriage was struck a tragic blow. At six months old, our first daughter, Danae, contracted acute lymphoblastic leukemia and passed away a year later. During this time I had no choice but to play the piano at various venues in order to raise funds for Danae’s medical expenses. When our second pregnancy ended in a miscarriage, we were urged never to give up on God. Eventually we were blessed with our third child Kaitlin who today is studying piano too.
I am currently employed full-time at Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) but every second weekend I tinkle the ivories at the Oyster Box Hotel adding a melodic ambience for those enjoying high tea. For anyone who knows me, my music and work at MSC are my greatest work passions, however my greatest passion is my relationship with God who has turned the tide in my life. I thank our minister of religion, John Kriel, for all the opportunities given to me to further my music talents.
I am available to provide live piano music, string quartets and other solo classical instruments for all occasions, including weddings. I also offer the services of a professional chef who will cook for a private dinner party in your home while I play romantic songs on the piano for those special occasions in your life.
FOR MORE INFO: Sheldon Vetter: 083 466 8552 | sheldonvetter@gmail.com