The Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) has announced the details of its annual musical festival, which will take place from October 13 to 27, 2024. This year’s festival, themed “Revival,” aimed at revitalisation of MUSON despite Nigeria’s economic challenges.
The festival will kick off with a brunch and art exhibition, followed by the opera “Dido and Aeneas.” Other major events include the Muson Day Concert, Musiqquest, My Kind of Music, and a collaborative show called “Music Meets Technology.” Jazz Night and a second opera performance, “Cianni Schicchi,” will take place on October 25. The festival will conclude with a grand gala featuring Joseph Haydn’s oratorio, The Creation, performed by the MUSON Choir and Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Emeka Nwokedi.
The opening art exhibition will showcase works by renowned artists including Uche Okeke, and Lamidi Fakeye. Additionally, 500-year-old ancient bronze pieces will be on display.
Louis Mbanefo SAN, Chairman MUSON Board Of Trustees announced it at a press briefing held recently at MUSON Centre, Lagos. He reflected on the organisation’s rich history. Founded by a group of friends, including Akintola Williams, Chief Ayo Rosiji, and himself.
He noted that MUSON has hosted concerts since 1984. “Today, it boasts two schools of music: a basic school and a diploma school accredited by the Ministry of Education. Over 500 graduates have completed the diploma program, many of whom have furthered their studies abroad or contributed to Nigeria’s music scene.
“MUSON has produced a medal-winning choir, a symphony orchestra led by German maestro Walter-Michael Vollhardt, and an opera department that stages international operas under the direction of John Lucien Eclou.”
According to him, MUSON’s 2024 festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of music, talent, and art, continuing the organisation’s long-standing tradition of promoting classical music and nurturing young talents in Nigeria.
Arch. Kitoyi Ibare-Akinsan, Chairman of the Festival Planning Committee, highlighted that many festival events are free, thanks to sponsorship from corporations like Chevron, TotalEnergies, and individuals such as Lt. Gen. T.Y. Danjuma and Mr. Bode Emmanuel.
One of the key events is the Musiqquest, a music competition for students sponsored by Mr. Bode Emmanuel. The competition finale on October 18 will feature eight young competitors in vocal and instrumental categories. The first prize for each category is ₦200,000, with the runner-up receiving ₦100,000.
