Field Notes from Kenya: Expanding Music Education Across Communities

Jul 10

Written By McLean Consulting Group of MDI .

First established fifteen years ago in Nairobi, our programs in Kenya are now expanding to communities in other parts of the country. Last week marked several powerful steps in support of this effort, all of which were extremely well received.

While SCS Artistic Director Nina Stern was unable to travel due to an injury, SCS Board member Nancy Jo Snider and SCS Kenya Advisory Board member Wandiri Karimi led a series of vibrant workshops at two schools on the southern coast: TradeWinds Academy and Footprints Early Years Academy. Through the Ghanaian song Senua de Dende, the teaching duo taught sessions in recorder, ukulele, and music literacy.

SCS online learning resources were instrumental in bringing the music to life in accessible and engaging ways. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, recorders were donated to both schools, ensuring the joy won't end with these workshops. The response from students and teachers alike was enthusiastic, affirming the need to expand access to music in these communities.

The teaching team leads music making in a crowded elementary school classroom at Footprints Academy

Nancy and Wandiri then traveled back to Nairobi, where workshops continued in partnership with the African Women’s Orchestra (AWO). SCS/CT students from Kibera had the rare opportunity to learn directly from AWO musicians—professional women instrumentalists representing strings, saxophone, guitar, and percussion.

Students from Kibera make music with members of the African Women's Orchestra using guitars, cellos, violins, saxophones, recorders, and more

The week concluded with lessons at the FAFU school, taught by percussionist and educator Dorothy Muchere. A highly respected scholar and practitioner of indigenous Kenyan music, Dorothy introduced students to traditional instruments including the kirigongo and kayamba, connecting African musical heritage with contemporary expression in a hands-on, joyful session.

Middle grades students play traditional Kenyan instruments with Dorothy Muchere in a classroom

$2125 out of $8000 raised with a milestone at $3000

This inspiring week of music, mentorship, and connection reached over 100 children! As Wandiri remarked, “Music belongs to them too, music shall tag the souls of children and serve as a constant reminder that freedom exists, if they let themselves be and become.”

These life-changing musical opportunities are powered by your support. Your donations directly fund instruments, workshops, online tools to support self-paced learning, and mentorship opportunities.

Now, your contribution toward our Kenya fundraiser can go even further: once we reach $3,000, a generous supporter will donate an additional $3,000. Help us claim this challenge grant with a contribution today!