The 14th International Music and Performing Arts Conference kicked off vibrantly today, exploring the ever-evolving connection between creative arts education and the 21st-century digital revolution. Hosted by Kabarak University’s renowned School of Music and Media, the two-day conference promises to be a thought-provoking convergence of minds, to shape the future of performance arts in the digital era.

The event was officially opened by Prof. John Ochola, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic and Research, who represented Kabarak University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Henry Kiplangat. In his opening speech, Prof. Ochola highlighted the growing influence of Kabarak University’s School of Music and Media on the global stage, praising its reputation as a bedrock for innovation in the creative and performance industries. He noted that the School’s mission to harness both tradition and technology aligns perfectly with the conference’s theme.

Kabarak University’s academic partnerships with the University of Ibadan in Nigeria and the University of Venda in South Africa have only strengthened this mission, with representatives from both universities in attendance, bringing fresh perspectives from their respective countries. These collaborations embody the university’s vision of creating a truly global exchange of knowledge.

Set against the backdrop of the digital revolution, the conference focuses on how emerging technologies are transforming performance arts. From the way music is composed, produced, and consumed, to the training of artists in digital platforms, the future of the arts has never been more dynamic or uncertain. Yet, with the insights shared at this conference, the future looks bright for students, practitioners, and researchers alike.

The keynote address, delivered by Dr. Donald Otoyo from the Permanent Presidential Music Commission (PPMC), set the tone for what promises to be an inspiring event. His address examined the critical intersection of digital intelligence, the creative economy, and arts education, offering a thought-provoking framework for navigating the complex terrain ahead.

With a mix of panel discussions, performances, and workshops, the 14th International Music and Performing Arts Conference is not just a meeting of minds, but a launching pad for the future of creative arts in the digital age.