Rosemead Preparatory School in Dulwich recently hosted a special event to celebrate 500 years of black music as part of their ‘Beyond the Bassline’ themed day on October 11. The event was a part of the school’s We Are Rosemead EEDI initiative, which focuses on promoting Equality, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion within the school community.
The celebration brought together students, staff, and guest speakers to recognize the significant impact that black music has had on global culture and history. Head Graeme McCafferty expressed his excitement about the event and highlighted the contributions of the dynamic guest speakers, David Kadamukasa and CeCelia Wickham-Anderson.
David, a talented cellist, shared captivating stories and songs from his musical journey, while CeCelia, a renowned vocalist and educator, led the children in vocal exercises that showcased the power of music as a universal language. The event aimed to educate and inspire the students by exploring the roots of music in African traditions and its influence on various genres like jazz, reggae, and hip-hop.
In addition to the live guests, Rosemead received messages of support from influential figures in the music industry, including vocal coach Mark De Lisser and Grammy award-winning artist Ella Mai. These messages emphasized the importance of embracing one’s talents and cultural heritage through the arts.
Beyond being a musical experience, the event underscored Rosemead’s commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of belonging within the school community. It aligned with the We Are Rosemead initiative, which aims to create an inclusive environment where every individual is recognized and valued for their unique contributions.
The school’s dedication to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion has not gone unnoticed, as Rosemead recently received nominations for two ISA Awards and was recognized by the Good Schools Guide for its innovative approach to education. The school’s focus on improvements in EDIB has also earned it accolades at the Education Choices Award.
Looking ahead, Rosemead invites prospective families to learn more about the school at an upcoming open morning on November 26. This event provides an opportunity to explore the school’s ethos and offerings, further highlighting Rosemead’s commitment to providing a well-rounded educational experience for its students.
