The Art Of Music Foundation - Project

Through music our students are discovering confidence, discipline, teamwork and a sense of possibility for their future. The continued support from BBT is enabling us to reach more young people and deepen the quality of the learning experience.

The Art of Music Foundation

Established in 2007, Ghetto Classics is the flagship programme of The Art of Music Foundation. This community initiative involves over 500 children in Korogocho, one of Kenya’s biggest slums, plus many more in 10 satellite areas around Nairobi, Kiambu and Mombasa. Through the discipline of studying music, the children learn many life skills and are also given other income-generating opportunities and social assistance, which in turn benefit their families and the community.

A BBT Community Grant in 2021 funded a professional training programme in collaboration with established musicians and teachers to further improve the standard and quantity of music lessons offered through the Ghetto Classics programme in Korogocho, as well as the development of performance opportunities and international relationships. The Ghetto Classics Mombasa programme was established in 2016 with the aim of providing music education and performance opportunities to children from underprivileged backgrounds in and around Kenya’s second largest city. Since its inception Ghetto Classics Mombasa has grown into a recognised institution in the region, working with partner schools to provide mentorship and transformative experiences to young students by equipping them with teamwork skills, self-discipline and a sense of purpose in a safe learning environment.

The requirement for quality instruction and access to instruments in Mombasa continues to grow, and a 2025 BBT Community Grant of £45,000 over three years is supporting the expansion of Ghetto Classics’ teaching faculty to directly benefit over 250 students by providing instructors specialising in brass, percussion, and lower strings; the acquisition of instruments; and the establishment of a new training hub in Mombasa’s Khadijah neighbourhood.

Before joining the programme, I had never touched a string instrument. Now I can perform with my classmates and represent my school in festivals. Music has made me more confident.

Student participant, Khadija Comprehensive School

The programme keeps our students engaged, motivated, and proud of their achievements. We have seen growth not only in musical ability, but also in discipline and teamwork.

Partner school representative

Photographs by Rich Allela