Children thrill as schools' music festival kicks off

Makini School pupils display their trophy after winning the setpiece class. Kindergarten and primary school pupils sang their hearts out in the opening of this year's Kenya Music Festival in Nairobi yesterday. (PHOTO: GEORGE ORIDO/ STANDARD)

Kindergarten and primary school pupils sang their hearts out in the opening of this year's Kenya Music Festival in Nairobi yesterday. 

As the fiesta returned to Nairobi after a 10-year break, defending champions Gilgil Hills Academy wowed the audience with their Western style singing game in which they explored learning through psychomotor skills.

In the song, "I (am) playing and getting dirty", they also expressed their dreams of becoming professionals - doctors, teachers and policewomen among others. Their red-and-white striped costumes enhanced the enjoyment.

Inspiration Primary School appeared to have learnt a lot from their performance last year and actually beat Gilgil to position two this year.

Regina Pacis came third in an openly tight class that had sequencing and change of scenes in quick succession.

"The whole idea is for the children to enjoy themselves," said Everlyne Muchira, one of the adjudicators, as she announced the results for this class, which was in stark contrast to the African style singing games that focused on toiling and sweating on the farm and earning a living.

Carol Academy from Nakuru proved to be the best with their Kikuyu singing game, "Githunguri", which scooped second position while Sana School from Homa Bay took a decent third position.

Sony Complex School's Rose Achieng and Gifta Tupei impressed as they took their team through the paces with swift moves under the guidance of Jacklyne Wabuko in the singing game titled "Time to Rejoice".

According to Rose Ongati, who was adjudicating the class, some of the songs given to the children were for adults and posed a challenge for some groups in expression.

"We urge teachers to choose more appropriate songs for the children in this group in future for better enjoyment," she said.

Other good performances came from Makini School in the set piece category conducted by David Isindu as well as Mbotela Nursery School who sang in the small choirs.

Silver Star School from Saika, Nairobi, and Tudor Primary from Mombasa also captivated the audience with their performances.

Aga Khan Academy from Mombasa were a proud lot when Abigail Obiero won the Class 105 H solo set piece entitled "Cradle Song" by Fwame Schubert, directed by Philip Mbinji.

Crossroads Primary School from Kilifi County did a splendid job with their performance, "Little Angel", by Nicole Atieno.

While opening the event that will attract 130,000 student participants over the next two weeks, Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero praised the different teams for exhibiting great talent.