An Absolutely Wonderful Story

Now here’s a fresh look at diversity on classical radio:

In an article Dec. 8th by Cathy Majtenyi of Kenya, Voice of America reports that classical music is booming in Kenya.

The recent launch of a classical music magazine and a growing number of concerts and programs on radio stations are a sign of the new popularity. Supporters say this type of music can compliment traditional African beats.

Three radio stations in Kenya now offer regular classical music programming. Elizabeth Njoroge studied classical music abroad. Back home the soprano not only performs, this year she also founded the magazine Classics, for Kenya’s classical musical lovers.

Kenya has a rich heritage of traditional music, with the country’s many ethnic cultures having distinctive instruments and beats.

Music teacher Lola Akwabi

Music teacher Lola Akwabi says she thinks the presence of western classical music in Kenya does not detract from the country’s homegrown music, that there is room for both.

“It is very interesting that someone will actually walk in here and tell me, why are you doing this Western culture, why aren’t you doing your African culture? And I am thinking, you should be dressed in a skin, speaking Swahili asking me that question,” Akwabi said.

Add to this Barack Obama’s statements on Meet The Press last Sunday:

Thinking about the diversity of our culture and inviting jazz musicians and classical musicians and poetry readings in the White House so that once again we appreciate this incredible tapestry that’s America,” he said.

Historically, what has always brought us through hard times is that national character, that sense of optimism, that willingness to look forward, that sense that better days are ahead,” Obama said. “I think that our art and our culture, our science–you know, that’s the essence of what makes America special, and we want to project that as much as possible in the White House.

Can you remember when you first started to listen to classical music on the radio?  Wouldn’t you like to go back to those days when it was all fresh and new?  Just a thought.  Makes me smile.