The Art of Music was founded in 2009 by Elizabeth Njoroge, with a mission to promote the performance and appreciation of classical music in Kenya and use its transformative power to change lives, particularly of those living in underprivileged areas around the country. They believe classical music, with its traditions of structure, discipline, and excellence, can offer a great awakening and opportunity to a broad spectrum of Kenyan youth.

Throughout these years Elizabeth was able to attract both local and international support. In 2007 Safaricom was sponsoring the initiative by providing study materials and marketing support. Moreover, numerous international ambassadors (ex. Margit Hellwig-Boette (Germany), Anna Grupinska (Poland)) participated in development and supported the initiative by providing children of Ghetto Classics with musical instruments, study books, and helped in securing other necessary donations and charity concerts.

The Ghetto Classics Initiative was visited by meaningful individuals from the world of art, politics and business: Yo-Yo Ma, First Lady of the US Jill Biden, and the dean and provost of The Juilliard School Ara Guzelimian. This gave the initiative not only worldwide exposure, but also enabled Ghetto Classics’ children with opportunities, such as studying in international academies, performing in Vatican, NYC and UN Habitat council meetings in Nairobi.