Risa Okech
Bio
Risa, an MBA graduate from Southern New Hampshire University with a concentration on Music Business from Berklee College of Music, is a classical musician with aspirations of becoming a film scorer. Her compositions reflect her classical training, a foundation further solidified by completing the ABRSM Piano and Theory Exams.
Her musical journey includes accolades as a choir member in Zimbabwe's National Eisteddfod competition, leading roles in a Marimba Band, and a performance with the late Sam Mtukudzi. She has graced stages before dignitaries such as the late president of Zimbabwe, Robert Mugabe and the late president of Kenya, Mwai Kibaki.
Risa's passion for musical theatre was ignited with her debut in "Yanomamo" in Zimbabwe. This passion led to her involvement in Kenya's theatre scene, having performed as a bassist with Spellcast Media Kenya, a group recognized at the 2019 Cafe Ngoma Awards and finalists in East Africa’s Got Talent. Her theatre repertoire includes performances with Khweva Arts, as part of Wild Orkestra, and with Aperture Africa in the musical "Robin Hood," directed by Amar Desai and musically directed by Andrew Tumbo. The production earned multiple nominations and awards, including Best Set, Sound, and Lighting.
In addition to theatre, Risa is a dedicated music educator, offering private piano lessons and teaching at music schools. Her musical versatility extends to playing keyboards at church, bass at live events, and as a studio session instrumentalist. She has showcased her talent at various festivals, corporate events, and as part of the peace initiative movement, Pamoja Amani Upendo.
An entrepreneur at heart, Risa co-founded Rhythm n’ Looks, hosting monthly events for emerging artists, and established Strum Sonus, specializing in musical instrument leasing, sales, customization, and offering Music Business Consultancy Services.
Currently, Risa is on a journey to captivate audiences with her unique theatrical composition style through a series of singles. The first release from this series is the evocative track entitled "Storm," which showcases her prowess in blending classical elements with contemporary themes.