Kampala Music School (KMS) is recognised as the centre of excellence in classical music in Uganda. It buzzes with musical sounds from early morning until late evening. Lessons from beginner to diploma level are available in piano, organ, singing and in most orchestral instruments.The KMS maxim that “no young person with talent and potential should be turned away because of inability to pay for lessons” is made possible by bursaries.
The story so far…..
KMS opened its doors in 2001 following the successful “Pianos for Uganda” scheme, set up in 1999, which spread 80 donated pianos across the country. A basement of the YMCA was rented and converted to house some of the pianos – and from these humble beginnings KMS was born!
At first it was piano and singing lessons that were offered - free to those who couldn’t afford to pay – and soon many talented young people began to pour in. Their eagerness to learn, their willingness to work hard, coupled with the wonderful natural musical ability that many Ugandans have, resulted in remarkable and rapid progress being made.
Generous donations of CDs, books and quantities of sheet music enabled KMS to build up a well-stocked library. The donation of stringed instruments and more recently woodwind and brass, enabled these instruments to become available to learn and practise. There is now a fast-developing orchestra and several instrumental ensembles. There are opportunities for taking part in full-scale opera productions, choral singing, from close-harmony to oratorio, and accompanying.