The Department of Creative Arts of the University of Lagos, under the leadership of Professor Albert Oikelome, on Tuesday, organized the 10th edition of Intercollegiate Choral Festival to celebrate the General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles, Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya.
The event, held inside the prestigious J.F. Ade Ajayi Auditorium, commenced at 3:00 pm, marking a momentous occasion after a hiatus due to the global pandemic.
Attendees were dazzled with the grandeur of the festival, also known as “Africa Sings”.
This year’s concert was uniquely dedicated to honoring the musical genius of Professor D.K. Olukoya.
Aside from being widely recognized for his impactful sermons, Professor Olukoya’s exceptional talents as a music composer were brought to the forefront during the remarkable event.
The festival featured choirs from eight prestigious universities, including the University of Lagos, Mountain Top University in Pakuro, Nnamdi Azikwe University in Awka, University of Port-Harcourt, University of Ibadan, Lagos State University in Ojo, University of Jos, and Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU). Each choir brought its unique style and interpretation to the stage, delighting the audience with their melodic harmonies and soul-stirring performances.
Organized under the visionary leadership of Professor Albert Oikelome, the Director of Programmes for the festival, the Choral Festival aimed to showcase African culture, art, and heritage through the transformative power of music.
Attendees were treated to an evening of captivating choral performances, exemplifying Africa’s rich musical diversity.
Some of the music performed included Mo Gb’oju Le Jesu- Prof. D.K Olukoya (Led by Titilope David and Adedaramola, Olaore)
University of Ibadan Choir performed Ekiti Medley by Prof. D.K Olukoya.
University of Jos choir performed Ekun mi yio dayo by Prof D.K Olukoya.
OAU choir performed Agbara Olorun by Prof D.K.
LASU choir performed: Igba mi d’owo re, Oluwa by Prof D.K.
UNILAG Choir performed Ona toro and Hallelujah Ogun se.
MTU performed Olorun Maje nri Ogun while UNIPORT performed pidgin medley.
Speaking at the concert, Professor Oikelome described Dr. Olukoya as an internationally renowned musicologist, a great academia, a scientist, creative writer, man of God with distinction, an amazing philanthropist and a great Akokite.
The chairman of the Organizing Committee, Modupe Ige Kachi, on her part, expressed her excitement at the event, emphasizing the significance of celebrating Professor D.K. Olukoya’s contributions to choral music.
She acknowledged his philanthropy, mentioning his generous provision of magnificent choral compositions that have enriched the university’s creative department and music unit.
In her words, she said “The choral festival is the brain child of Professor Albert Oikelome. Professor D.K Olukoya is honored this year being a huge supporter of the Music unit and the Creative department in the University of Lagos. He has written so many wonderful choral that we have been using in school for some of our works and he is such a Philanthropist and this year we decided to put him on the spotlight and showcase his works”.
The event’s atmosphere was electrifying, as the choirs masterfully rendered Professor Olukoya’s compositions.
The audience was enthralled by the enchanting melodies, powerful harmonies, and heartfelt emotions conveyed through each performance.
The choral festival provided an opportunity for attendees to not only appreciate the extraordinary talent of Professor Olukoya but also to embrace the richness of African music.
The resounding success of the 10th edition of the Choral Festival at the University of Lagos left a lasting impression on all who attended.
The event not only showcased the remarkable talent of university choirs but also paid homage to Professor D.K. Olukoya’s extraordinary contributions to the world of choral music.
It was a testament to the power of music in uniting communities, celebrating cultural heritage, and inspiring future generations of musicians.
As the curtain fell on the event, the resounding applause and standing ovations reverberated throughout the auditorium, signifying the profound impact of the Choral Festival in celebrating the exceptional choral compositions of Professor D.K. Olukoya.
