As the government enhances reforms in the education sector aimed at nurturing talents among learners away from academics, a school in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, has carved its niche in Music industry.
Three Rivers academy, which was started during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic has taken Laikipia and neighbouring counties by storm through their electrifying and exhilarating performances during national event celebrations, where their theatrics in instrument playing steal the show whenever they are on stage, making them the most sought-after music team when there is a major function in the region.
The school, which offers the Cambridge International Curriculum, has been performing at some of the notable events, including Madaraka day, Jamhuri day and local functions, where they leave audiences in awe, making them a giant of their own making in the music industry.
According to Emmanuel Ashene, the school music instructor, the pupils don’t have any background in music. However, their passion and dedication have elevated them to performing their art meticulously.
“We started music in 2023 and there was no prior introduction of music; everything started from scratch. The band members don’t have any background in music. Learners create their own time to rehearse and go beyond what I teach them,” says Ashene.
Some of the music they perform includes loved old classic music, popularly known as ‘zilizopendwa’ and ‘Zhumba’, among other genres in contemporary society.
“We have the senior and junior bands; it’s quite a journey for them and as a teacher, I am always amused at how they learn these instruments. They play different kinds of music, from modern music to zilizopendwa,” reveals Ashene.
He notes that the music enthusiasts play and gauge the music genre based on their own interests. I just guide them as their director but all the effort from the band comes from them,” he highlights.
The School Director Joseph Lopeyok attributes the success to the students’ character, which he says has rated them positively.
“We are nurturing global citizens who can work anywhere in the world with character. These students have been performing very well both in academics and in talent development; we have confidence in them,” says the director.
Shantel Shaniza, a fourteen-year-old student at the institution and one of the band members, notes that music inspires her, especially when she boisterously plays trombone and cymbals with the melody cutting through the ensemble.
Victor Shikalo, another band member, says his inspiration comes from his father, who is a vocalist. He is also happy and says that playing music has made him visit places.
This comes when the government takes a keen interest in developing and nurturing talent and, at the same time, rolling out initiatives aimed at helping talented learners develop their skills, grow and be a source of encouragement to others in the future.
Some of the instruments the learners at the academy have mastered include the trumpet, violin, flute, piano, and drum set, among others.
By Muturi Mwangi
