Our story
Ramajay Kids is a South London-based, music education provider, born out of a need for affordable, yet expert music tuition. The word ‘Ramajay’ originates from Trinidad & Tobago – the home of Steel Pan. Its meaning encompasses the culture at Ramajay Kids; we allow students to let go and break away, whilst being guided by our experienced tutors.
We are Steel Pan specialists (hence the logo!) and driven by the goal of making Steel Pan more than just ‘that instrument you hear on holiday in the Caribbean’. Steel Pan is accessible for all – including students who do not read music. It can however, be used as an aid to help students learn music theory. At Ramajay, children also have the opportunity to learn other instruments, taught by expert tutors and musicians who share our values.
Whether at our summer schools or one-day workshops, students are taught in the same way as musicians in the panyards of Trinidad & Tobago. Every melody, harmony and rhythm is learnt aurally and committed to memory. This provides children with the skills needed to be able to read music with a deeper understanding of how the music is supposed to feel and sound.
We work by the motto of absolute inclusivity, safe in the knowledge that music, when taught thoroughly and in good spirit, can provide positive direction for any child.
“Every child should receive a great music education. Learning about music and having the opportunity to play musical instruments and make music together is a vital part of a rich and rounded education. Music plays a key role in brain development. It helps to develop language, motor skills, emotional intelligence and collaboration skills.” (DfE, Jan 2023)