The MTN Foundation and the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) recently celebrated the graduation of 29 young musicians from their esteemed scholarship program. The ceremony, held at the MUSON Centre in Lagos, highlighted the scholars’ exceptional talent and marked a pivotal moment in their musical careers.
Since its inception in 2006, the MTN Music Scholarship Programme has been dedicated to providing world-class classical music education to talented young Nigerians. The recent event underscored the program’s success in nurturing exceptional talent and its significant impact on Nigeria’s music industry.
Among the standout graduates was Lala Gabriel, whose classical music journey began at MUSON. Initially joining the program with two grade 5 certificates, Gabriel now leaves with 10 professional certificates. His time in the MUSON program has transformed him into a professional musician skilled in playing the double bass and electric bass, producing music, mixing and mastering, directing choirs, and working as a movie sound designer.
“MUSON has been very impactful,” Gabriel stated. “It has helped me grow and fine-tuned me into becoming a well-rounded musician.”
The graduating scholars performed a mix of classical and Afrobeat pieces, showcasing their dedication and the high level of training they have received. Another highlight of the evening was Maria Nnaji, who credited MUSON with refining her musical abilities. Under the mentorship of her vocal coach, Princess Adebanke, Director of the School of Music at MUSON, Nnaji’s skills have significantly improved.
“Princess Adebanke helps amplify my strengths and improve my weaknesses; she pushes me to realize my potential,” Nnaji shared. “The MUSON effect has truly transformed my music.”
The Executive Director of the MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya, expressed her pride and encouragement to the graduates.
“When you look at what’s happening in the country, there’s no reason for us to continue with this. But that just shows MTN’s dedication towards youth development in Nigeria,” she said. “MUSON is like a diamond in the rough. Every year, we polish and push out exceptional musical talents around the world. The journey has been 17 years long, and it has just gotten stronger over the years.”
She urged the students to be impactful and serve as agents of change in their communities.
“Even if you don’t pay it forward in MUSON, please continue to pay it forward, remembering that some people took a chance on you. And that’s why you are here today.”
The MTN Foundation and MUSON remain committed to expanding the scholarship program’s reach, ensuring that more talented youths from underprivileged backgrounds can pursue their musical dreams. This partnership continues to make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s cultural landscape by investing in the next generation of musicians.
