Mulala H.G.M from Eastern rehearses their item during the National music festival at Kibabii University in Bungoma. [Standard-Benjamin Sakwa]
Leadership skills came to the fore on day one at the 2026 National Kenya Music Festival, as young learners demonstrated that music, dance can also shape future leaders by teaching teamwork, responsibility, communication and 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.
One intermediate violinist stood out after qualifying for the national stage following an impressive campaign that saw her finish first at both the sub-county and county levels before placing second at the regional competition.
Her achievement was credited to the guidance of teachers Migeni Beatrice, Doreen Magara, Lilian Otieno and Samuel Rutoh, with support from Principal Paul Rotich, Deputy Principal Kingoo and Moses Maneno.