Rockside Academy students rehearse a Kisii dance "Obokono" during Kenya National Music Festivals at Kibabii University in Bungoma on August 2, 2026. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]
Leadership skills took centre stage on the first day of the 2026 Kenya National Music Festival, as learners demonstrated that music and dance can play a vital role in shaping future leaders by fostering teamwork, responsibility, effective communication, and self-confidence from an early age.
While audiences were treated to colourful cultural displays, instrumental performances and traditional dances, the festival's greatest lesson was nurturing leadership skills among children.
Individual excellence was seen through classical instrumental music by Clare Waridi Mwema from Moi Education Centre Nairobi after showcasing remarkable talent in the Violin, Viola, Cello and Double Bass Intermediate Own Choice category for primary schools.
The performances featured the four bowed string instruments, testing learners' technical ability, discipline and stage confidence.
The school also competed in beginner, intermediate and advanced instrumental classes under categories 1108, 1109 and 1110.