Nanyuki school strikes the right chord as young musicians shine at major events

As the government continues to roll out reforms in the education sector aimed at nurturing talents beyond academics, a school in Nanyuki, Laikipia County, is steadily making a name for itself in the music industry.

Three Rivers Academy, which was established at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, has captured the attention of residents in Laikipia and neighbouring counties with its electrifying musical performances during major national celebrations and local events.

The school’s music band has become a crowd favourite, with their theatrical instrumental displays often stealing the show whenever they take to the stage. Their energetic performances have made them one of the most sought-after music groups for major functions in the region.

The institution, which offers the Cambridge International Curriculum, has performed at notable national celebrations including Madaraka Day and Jamhuri Day, as well as several local events, leaving audiences in awe with their impressive musical coordination and stage presence.

According to the school’s music instructor, Emmanuel Ashene, the band’s remarkable success is even more impressive considering that most of the learners had no prior background in music.

“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,” said Ashene.

He noted that the learners’ passion and commitment to practice have played a key role in sharpening their musical skills.

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“The students are very dedicated. They take their time to practice and explore different instruments and music styles, which have helped them, grow tremendously,” he added.

The band performs a wide range of music genres, including popular old classics commonly referred to as zilizopendwa, as well as Zumba and contemporary tunes that resonate with modern audiences.

“We have both senior and junior bands. It has been quite a journey for them and as a teacher, I am always amused by how quickly they learn these instruments. They play different kinds of music, from modern music to zilizopendwa,” Ashene explained.

He added that the learners also take initiative in selecting the genres they wish to perform.

“They play and gauge the music genre based on their own interests. I just guide them as their director, but most of the effort comes from the band members themselves,” he said.

The school’s director, Joseph Lopeyok, attributed the success of the music programme to the students’ discipline and strong character, noting that talent development is a key pillar of the institution.

“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 great confidence in them,” said Lopeyok.

For the learners, music has become more than just a co-curricular activity—it is a passion that inspires them and broadens their horizons.

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Fourteen-year-old Shantel Shaniza, one of the band members, says she draws inspiration from music whenever she performs.

“Music inspires me, especially when I play the trombone and cymbals. It is exciting to hear the melody blend with the other instruments,” she said.

Another student, Victor Shikalo, says his love for music was influenced by his father, who is a vocalist.

“My father is a singer and that inspired me to join the band. Playing music has also given me the opportunity to travel and visit different places,” said Shikalo.

The school’s growing reputation comes at a time when the government is placing increased emphasis on talent development among learners through various initiatives aimed at supporting creative and performing arts in schools.

At Three Rivers Academy, students have already mastered a variety of musical instruments including the trumpet, violin, flute, piano and drum set, among others.

With their growing confidence and expanding repertoire, the young musicians continue to capture audiences wherever they perform, proving that talent nurtured at an early age can flourish into remarkable achievement.

By Kimutai Langat