Culture

Empowering Artists and Celebrating Heritage.

At KeLaC, we’re passionate about nurturing cultural heritage and artistic expression. Our institution supports both local and international traditions by offering programs that promote the richness of music, dance, and cultural arts. Through our research, we identified a significant gap in resources and training for artists—particularly in traditional and folk arts—and we aim to bridge this by providing essential resources, workshops, and creative spaces for cultural expression.

Music Training Programs

KeLaC school
  • Kenyan and East African Folk Music: Workshops on instruments like the nyatiti (a traditional Luo string instrument), orutu, and African drums, teaching both performance and the cultural stories behind these instruments.
  • West African Drumming and Vocal Training: Classes in West African drum techniques, such as the djembe, and vocal traditions, providing foundational skills in rhythmic patterns and harmonies.
  • International Fusion: Programs blending African folk music with genres like jazz, reggae, and hip-hop, encouraging artists to explore global musical intersections.
  • Modern Recording and Production: Training in modern music production, recording, and studio techniques to give artists the skills to professionally record and share their work.

Cultural Dance Programs

KeLaC’s dance programs explore the diversity of African and international dance traditions, creating a space where students can learn, perform, and celebrate the global richness of dance. Our classes cater to all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and include.

  • Kenyan Traditional Dances: Classes in local dance forms, such as the Maasai “Adumu” (jumping dance), Kikuyu “Mugithi,” and Luhya “Isukuti,” where participants learn the history and cultural significance of each style.
  • African Diaspora Dance: Trainings in dances with African roots, like samba from Brazil, Cuban rumba, and hip-hop, showing students how African culture has influenced global dance.
  • International Dance Styles: Exposure to world dance forms, including flamenco, salsa, and traditional Chinese fan dancing, expanding students’ global dance vocabulary.
  • Performance and Choreography: Training on choreography and stage presence, empowering artists to create and perform original routines that honor their cultural backgrounds and personal stories.

 

KeLaC school
KeLaC school

Traditional Dances

Modern Dances

Artistic Empowerment and Cultural Preservation

In addition to music and dance, KeLaC offers programs designed to empower artists and preserve cultural heritage through artistic expression. Our workshops and seminars provide insights and skills for thriving in today’s creative industry:

  • Artistic Entrepreneurship: Training in business skills for artists, including branding, promotion, and project management, helping them to turn their talents into sustainable careers.
  • Storytelling and Cultural Documentation: Workshops on documenting oral traditions, folklore, and personal stories through mediums like film, photography, and digital media.
  • Craft and Visual Arts: Classes on traditional crafts, such as beadwork, weaving, and pottery, encouraging artisans to sustain these crafts while exploring modern interpretations.
  • Global Art Exchange: Programs that bring artists from different cultures together to collaborate, share techniques, and create intercultural art pieces.

Experience Authentic Culture with KeLaC.

Through our music, dance, and arts programs, KeLaC creates a vibrant community where artists, performers, and learners come together to celebrate heritage and creativity. By empowering artists with resources and skills, we aim to foster a culturally rich and artistically empowered generation. Join us in preserving and celebrating the beauty of our global heritage.