They perform with passion and precision, qualities that have earned them recognition for their musical excellence over the years.
Through the harmonious sounds of their instruments, both during official functions and training sessions, the school bands have won the admiration of audiences.
They have performed at public and private functions, entertaining guests while demonstrating the skill and coordination that set them apart.
These are the bands from Radiance Academy in Free Area, Nakuru City, and Moi High and Senior School, Kabarak, in Rongai Constituency.
Their expertise and coordination in handling musical instruments are so impressive that they could easily be mistaken for bands from the disciplined forces. Their performances have mesmerised audiences at various events, where they have been invited to entertain guests and dignitaries.
Over the years, the two bands have performed during national celebrations, as well as school ceremonies and private functions. For Radiance Academy Band director Collins Sewe, their success is the result of passion and hard work, which have been central to the formation and growth of the school’s brass band.
The members began in Sunday School choirs, advanced through county, regional and national music festivals, and gained further experience in various bands while pursuing their education.
Sewe said their determination and self-belief continue to inspire them to improve their performances, while their musical activities complement the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC). “We all have a common denominator at work, which is passion and determination to do our best in all functions. That’s a culture bestowed on us and inculcated in us in the fight for top honours,” Sewe said.
The school’s commitment to music has already earned the band an invitation to perform during the Mashujaa Day celebrations at the Nakuru East Sub-County level.
For the students, the journey into band music often begins with early exposure and encouragement from family, school and their surroundings.
Radiance Academy Band drum major Naftali James Ogeto said his parents encouraged his love for music from childhood, when he began participating in grassroots music festivals.
Joining the school choir later gave him an opportunity to develop his talent further before progressing to the band. “It was a perfect opportunity to enhance my music talent when I joined the school choir in 2024, which has refined me to the school band,” said the 14-year-old Grade Eight student.
Percussionist Spencer Musyoka shared the same sentiments as Ogeto, highlighting the role of school music activities in nurturing young talent.
Drummer Alpha Njoria, his interest in music developed after watching several music shows on television, which inspired him to pursue the art.
Meanwhile, Deng’ Abut, the only girl in Radiance Academy’s 36-member band, said she appreciates the training and teamwork that define the group. “We share lots of love here and it enhances our commitment to work whether in training or official functions,” said Abut, a Sudanese student at the school.
At Moi High and Senior School, Kabarak, band music also plays an important role in school life, although the group’s recent performances have largely been confined to the institution.
The school’s Head of Music, Dorothy Zalo, said the band has mainly been involved in school-based activities, including assemblies and church functions. “Nowadays, we only take part in the school-based functions at the assemblies and on church functions. 90% of our functions are school based activities,” she stated.
In the past, the school’s band performed at public functions in Mogotio. The institution operates both brass and woodwind bands, with a stronger focus on the latter.
Beyond entertaining audiences, students say participating in band music helps them develop important skills, including teamwork, discipline and musical appreciation.