In a harmonious symphony of gratitude, the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) hosted an enchanting appreciation concert to honour the generous donation of the MTN Foundation (MTNF), showcasing the musical prowess of the institution’s talented scholars. The event, held on Thursday, December 7th, 2023, at the Agip Recital Hall, MUSON Centre in Onikan, Lagos, resonated with heartfelt appreciation from the scholars towards the donors who have generously supported their musical journey.
Established in 1989 to promote and foster the development of various musical genres, including classical and contemporary music, MTN Foundation has been a major sponsor of MUSON for 17 years, aligning with the foundation’s core objective of nurturing young talents in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Among the featured performers at the concert was Okonji Emmanuel Ifeanyi-Chukwu, a musician with a major flute and a minor in guitar. Expressing immense gratitude, Emmanuel highlighted the invaluable support from MTN Foundation, emphasizing the impact it had on his musical aspirations. “Before I got this opportunity, I had always had a passion for music. MTN Foundation has helped me understand what music is all about,” Emmanuel enthused, emphasizing the profound influence of MTN’s support in nurturing his musical talents.
The concert, an annual tradition, serves as an avenue for MTNF MUSON scholars to extend their appreciation to donors who have been instrumental in their musical journey. This year’s event was a celebration of gratitude, acknowledging the pivotal role of donors in supporting the scholars’ pursuit of musical excellence.
Chukwueze Victor Ikenna, another scholar, also expressed heartfelt gratitude, acknowledging the role of MUSON in refining his musical approach and skills. “Through MTN’s support, we’ve been able to refine our skills here at the MUSON School of Music. All thanks to MTN for their unwavering support,” Victor remarked.
Commenting on the impact of the initiative, Odunayo Sanya, the Executive Secretary of MTN Foundation, noted that scholars and graduates of MUSON School of Music are excelling both within the local community and on the international stage. “We witness extraordinary performances from these young talents at various events. At MTN Foundation, our objective is to empower students to achieve their goal whilst being a part of their journey,” she said.
Over the years, the initiative provides annual scholarships worth N250,000 to cover tuition, books, and transportation for eligible musically talented youth to study at the prestigious Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON). Students are awarded an internationally recognised Diploma in Music on graduation.
CAPTION:
L-R: Tope Adeniyi Williams; Vice Chairman, MUSON, Chief Femi Adeniyi-Williams; Director, MTN Foundation, Dennis Okoro; Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya; Chairman MUSON, Louis Mbanefo (SAN); Director MUSON School of Music, Princess Banke Ademola; and Deputy Director, MUSON School of Music, Sir Emeka Nwokedi at the MTN Foundation MUSON Donors Appreciation Concert held in MUSON Centre, Lagos, on Thursday, November 7, 2023.
