Graduates of the MTN-MUSON Scholarship programme have praised the sponsors of the initiative for boosting musical talent development in the country.
Speaking on behalf of other graduates of the programme, Adebayo Gabriel, also known as “Lala,” credited the initiative with fundamentally transforming their musical abilities and career trajectory.
This year, the MTN Foundation, in collaboration with the Musical Society of Nigeria’s School of Music, awarded scholarships to 30 talented individuals, providing them with opportunities to enhance their skills across various areas of music.
According to Gabriel, the initiative has refined and improved their skills in diverse areas of music.
“I used to believe I had reached a professional level in music. However, as time passed, I realised there was so much more to learn,” Gabriel said in a statement shared by the Foundation.
He noted that his experience at MUSON allowed him to venture beyond contemporary bass into classical music and double bass, significantly broadening his musical expertise.
With another year of this programme completed and 30 scholarship recipients set to take on the world and thrive in their chosen fields, some of the students have taken the time to reflect on what has been a life-changing experience for them, the statement highlighted.
According to the music talent, the scholarship provided an opportunity to acquire not just the requisite 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 said.
The graduate spoke about his learning experience at MUSON and the skills he acquired during his program, citing the program as an impactful one.
“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,” Gabriel expressed.
According to the foundation, the scholarship programme provides annual scholarships worth N250,000 to cover tuition, books and transportation over two years, for eligible musically talented youth to study at MUSON.
It disclosed that students were awarded an internationally recognised diploma in music upon graduation.
Expressing his gratitude for his time at MUSON, Gabriel said, “I came into MUSON with just two grade five certificates, and now I will be leaving with about 10 different professional certificates. It is a big one for me. You have impacted my life. Thank you, MTN Foundation, for the opportunity.”
According to the foundation, the scholarship programme provides annual scholarships worth N250,000 to cover tuition, books and transportation over two years, for eligible musically talented youth to study at MUSON.
Students were awarded an internationally recognised diploma in Music upon graduation.