'Ghetto Classics' alleviating poverty in Kenya's slums via music

Children from Kenya’s slums are learning classical music.

For seven years, an association called “Ghetto Classics” has been teaching children from the Korogocho slum the musical genre often associated with the elite.

More than 300 children have been introduced to the genre.

These students have had a chance to benefit from the expertise of international artists – an experience set to enrich their future careers.

“It’s really important because first of all they motivate us to keep on working hard, (to) keep on practising, because we also want to be like them, to play at an international level, to play around the world,” said Erich, a member of Ghetto Classics.

The programme seeks to use music to make a difference in the lives of young Kenyans.

Ghetto classics children meet Funkidz manufacturing #youth #inspireyouth #positivesideofafrica MathaiWanjira pic.twitter.com/XjdEuiWj4k

— ciiru (CCiiru) April 22, 2016

The founders says they believe art music, offers an opportunity to broaden the spectrum of the Kenyan youth.

“They are out of trouble they are doing good, they are dreaming big, they want more,” said Elizabeth Njoroge, Director of Ghetto Classics.

“And you know the community itself does admit that “Ghetto Classics” has been the most impactful programme because of the skills that we teach the kids, that they stand out as mentors to the other children,” she added.

Future African classical music icons might be born right at this school.

AFP