Jazz, drama, dance and classical music berth at MUSON Classical Concert

L – R: Renowned Violinist, Professor Ulf Klausenitzer; MUSON Artistic Director, Maestro Thomas Kanitz; Pianist Manami Sano; Head, High Value Events and Sponsorships, Etisalat Nigeria, Ebi Atawodi, and General Manager, MUSON Centre, Mr. Gboyega Banjo, at the classical concert during the MUSON Music Festival

 The Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) Centre in Onikan, Lagos, was alight with jazz, drama, dance and classical music, for 10 days in October in celebration of its annual Music Festival which coincided with its 30^th anniversary. Sponsored by Etisalat Nigeria the night was marked by breathtaking performances delivered by two guest artistes from Germany, Professor Ulf Klausenitzer on the violin and Ms. Manami Sano on the piano. They both performed alongside MUSON Artistic Director, Maestro Thomas Kanitz. The classical night also featured a selection of African classical works and a star performance by Nigeria’s renowned Pianist, Ayo Bankole Jnr., distinguished by a classical rendition of Yoruba folk tunes.  

Chief Commercial Officer, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr. Mathew Willsher, described the commitment of the MUSON to classical music as inspiring. “Etisalat is proud to support the work the MUSON is making in supporting classical music in Nigeria. We support different platforms which promote arts and culture in the country such as the annual Lagos Photo Festival and the Lagos Jazz series. It is our way of sharing in the passion of our customers and supporting causes such as this one, which make an impact in the classical music community,” he said.

Meanwhile, General Manager of the MUSON Centre, Mr. Gboyega Banjo, said it was a delight to have a large crop of classical music lovers, especially Nigerians, enjoying the richness and elegance of classical music at this year’s concert. Guests, who shared their peak moments of the concert with this reporter, said the annual MUSON Classical Concert is one to remember and look forward to. The event attracted music lovers from home and abroad, including Mr. Akintola Williams (OFR).

 The MUSON Classical Concert was a part of activities marking the annual MUSON Music Festival which kicked off on 17^th October, 2013. It was a double celebration, this year, as the MUSON also marked its 30^th anniversary on October 25^th.