Body of organists and music directors in Nigeria, Guild of Organists of Nigeria has marked its 10th anniversary in grand style.
At the event, attendees were serenaded with classical music from choir groups. Music scholars and enthusiasts clamoured for proper investment in music education across the country.
The guild of organists of Nigeria was formed in 2008 by few older veteran organists who felt the need to establish a body to bring all organists and choir masters together.
The membership of the guild has grown from sixty to over 300 including those who are in the diaspora, UK and USA.
The National President, Dr. Samuel Ajose while speaking to journalists at the event urged the government to provide an enabling environment that will facilitate music learning in schools.
He said: “It has been an interesting journey. It has not been easy, but we’ve recorded strides. In celebrating the 10 years, our charge to our members to come together, to foster unity and to contribute our own quota to capacity building, national unity and development through the act of organ playing and choir
“Music plays a pivotal role in comforting the people in time of problem, trials. Music has a huge power. For our guild, we perform what is called classical music.
“We have a strong body that will bring together professionals in Nigeria. We want the government to provide enabling platforms for members. Instruments are expensive.
“Government can invest in schools by buying organs for students in secondary and primary schools. This will help them mould their career.”
The guest lecturer, Ven. Dr. Tolulope Daramola in his lecture titled: “Building a community of music as organists, choir masters and clergy for spiritual and social transformation in Nigeria”, underscored the role of Nigerian churches organists and choir masters association in unleashing dormant talents and generating novel definition of our collective life that how universally accessible music is an aid to worship today.
He noted that: “Nigeria’s vibrant music scene extends beyond the walls of churches with numerous festivals, concerts, and competitions providing platforms for musicians to showcase their artistic prowess.
“Music possesses the unparalleled ability to inspire and captivate individuals from all walks of life, uniting hearts and minds in a shared rhythm of passion, joy and creativity.
“Nigeria has the potential to reclaim its rightful place as a beacon of progress and innovation. It is impressive for Nigeria to foster an environment that champions social justice and sustainable development.
“It is also advisable to invest in musical instruments and new music documentation that will lead to the renewal and transformation of the congregation. In Nigeria, the church organists and music Ministers are fast disappearing.
“This is primarily due to the immense challenges and hardships music practitioner endure while carrying out their crucial roles within the church community.”
