With another year of the MTN-MUSON Scholarship programme completed, 30 recipients are set to take on the world and thrive in their chosen fields.
In fact, the scholarship programme has created an opportunity for the beneficiaries to refine and improve their skills in diverse areas of music. Now, some of them have taken the time to reflect on what has been a life-changing experience for them.
According to Adebayo ‘Lala’ Gabriel, one of this year’s scholars and student president, the scholarship provided him an opportunity to acquire not just the requisite music knowledge, but also a depth of knowledge beyond his expectations.
“I used to believe I had reached a professional level in music. However, as time passed, I realised that there was a whole lot I still needed to learn,” he confessed.
The bassist spoke about his learning experience at MUSON and the skills he acquired during the programme, which he described as impactful. “Prior to MUSON, I had not explored classical music or the double bass. I only played contemporary bass. Now my overall approach to bass playing has become more professional,” he noted.
With dedication and drive for excellence, Lala has acquired great skills in music, standing out amongst his peers and impressing his tutors and loved ones.
Beyond the contemporary bass, which he played before enrolling at the MUSON School of Music, Lala has become a skilled music producer, electric and double bassist, choir director and sound designer.
Expressing his gratitude for his time at MUSON, Lala said: “I came into MUSON with just two grade five certificates, and now I’ll be leaving with about 10 different professional certificates. It’s a big one for me. Thank you MTN Foundation for the opportunity.”