Rosemead Preparatory School celebrates 500 years of Black Music with a day to remember

Rosemead Preparatory School and Nursery, Dulwich, celebrated 500 years of black music with a ‘Beyond the Bassline’ themed day on Friday, October 11.

As part of the school’s We Are Rosemead EEDI initiative, which places a focus on fostering Equality, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion within the school community, Rosemead enjoyed a vibrant and uplifting day celebrating Beyond the Bassline: 500 Years of Black Music. 

This event brought together children, staff, and guest speakers to celebrate the profound impact Black music has had on global culture and history, connecting Rosemead’s curriculum to this rich legacy.

Speaking about the event, head Graeme McCafferty explained: “We were thrilled to welcome two dynamic guest speakers, David Kadamukasa and CeCelia Wickham-Anderson. 

“David, our very own cellist, captivated our children with fascinating insights into his journey through music sharing stories and songs from his past.

“CeCelia Wickham-Anderson, a legendary vocalist and educator, brought energy and passion to the day through her vocal warm-ups and singing sessions. 

“She led the children in a series of incredible vocal exercises, demonstrating the power of music as a universal language that connects us all. 

“The children were enthralled by her warmth and expertise, and their voices filled the school with beautiful harmonies—a highlight that left everyone buzzing with excitement.”

Graeme added: “Celia educated us all, sharing songs from music’s roots in African traditions to its influence on genres such as jazz, reggae, and hip-hop. Her talk offered a powerful reminder of how Black artists and communities have shaped the soundtracks of our lives.

“In addition to our live guests, we were delighted to receive messages of support from two influential figures in the music industry: Mark De Lisser, a celebrated vocal coach and choir director, whom some of you may remember as our guest speaker at our end of year celebrations in 2022, and the Grammy award-winning artist Ella Mai. 

“Both shared words of encouragement with our children, reinforcing the importance of believing in their talents and staying connected to their cultural heritage through the arts.”

The celebration was more than just a musical experience; it was a key moment for Rosemead’s ongoing efforts to celebrate the diversity within the school community and to inspire children with stories and perspectives from different cultures. The event also reflected the heart of the We Are Rosemead initiative, which is dedicated to creating a school environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued for their unique contributions.

Beyond the Bassline helps nurture a deeper understanding of the world around us, teaching our children not just about the past, but about the importance of inclusion, respect, and unity in shaping the future.

Last month, Rosemead was delighted to find out it has been nominated for two awards at the upcoming ISA Awards in November. 

The school has been shortlisted for Innovation in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and for Junior School of the Year. Rosemead is also celebrating after a visit from the Good Schools Guide earlier this year. ‘We think Rosemead is definitely ‘one to watch’ as it carves out a specific niche in this corner of London,’ the review explained.

In June, the school was also delighted to receive an award at the prestigious Education Choices Award, winning for best Improvements in EDIB (Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging).

Find out more about Rosemead at their upcoming open morning on Tuesday, November 26. Book at www.rosemeadprep.org.uk

(All pictures: Courtesy of Rosemead Preparatory School)