From Korogocho to the World: The Ghetto Classics Orchestra that Performed for Obama and the Pope

The orchestra has played for Jill Biden, Barack Obama and the Pope. The group grew out of one of the most deprived slums of the capital Nairobi, and has given thousands of children an opportunity to play music, and hope.

The orchestra is the flagship project of Art of Music Foundation established in 2007 in Korogocho, Nairobi.

It was not until 2009 that the Orchestra arm was established.

It has since grown into a life-changing movement that is now transforming lives of young people in Kenya through music.

Over the years, Ghetto classics has empowered over 1,500 children mostly from slums, giving them hope and a purpose in life through music.

The group's Head tutor and music director Everton, grew up in Mathare slums – and joined the programme after completing his high school education. 

According to Rosemary Atasha, 15, from Mukuru Kwa Ruben, the Ghetto Classics programme has positively impacted her life.

“Today I have grown in confidence. I can also play some musical instruments very well. That was not the case before I joined the programme.

Atasha is one of the many beneficiaries of the programme that continues to spread its wings to distant counties like Mombasa.

The group was founded by Elizabeth Njoroge – and has continued to touch lives. Watch the full video.