Great Musical Happenings in Kenya!
Joyful music-making continues in Kibera.
Because of the groundbreaking addition of WiFi in our schools in Kibera this fall, we are able to continue music literacy and music technology classes with our students there.
Young musicians from both the FAFU School and Center of Hope are participating in weekly lessons with Ruaridh Pattison.
Last week, Julius Odhiambo also introduced excited students at the Garden of Hope School to new instruments, including the flute and violin (see pictures above).
Video of the Week
In the fall of 2019, SCS Board Member Nancy Snider interviewed some of our music students in Kibera. Titus speaks about how performing with the music team inspires him.
Link to "Titus and Nancy Interview."
Community Member Highlight
Jimmy Kamau, Project Manager for Crossing Thresholds in Kenya, makes our work in Kibera possible!
"24 years ago," says Jimmy, "I wrote over 300 letters in the hope that one of them could reach a soul that had the patience and trust to listen to my dream of one day breaking the law of gravity and flying with the birds.
A couple in Connecticut heeded my cry, and through many years of hard work and perseverance, I now have four golden bars on my shoulder, flying as captain of my national airline, Kenya Airways.
The story came full circle when that same couple met with Carter Via who had a mission of building and sustaining holistic schools in Kibera. Fate brought us all together, and with the strength and determination of the school directors, who give themselves endlessly to this calling every day, I took up the role of Project Manager, working hand-in-hand with them to change the lives of over 1,500 children.
Music is a creative art that has emboldened many of our students and reminded them that they too can follow their dreams and grow their talents. Thanks to the endless efforts of Crossing Thresholds and S'Cool Sounds, our students have the instruments and musical support they require to pursue their art. Our hope is to see more students sing, perform and remind us that the sound of music refreshes and fills our hearts with joy in every possible way."
Thank you for your dedication, Jimmy!