Faculty of Arts Alumni Lecture Highlights Transformative Power of Music Education

           Fawaz Adedeji

The third edition of the Faculty of Arts Distinguished Alumni Lecture, held on Thursday, July 2, at Oduduwa Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), enlightened students on how formal education transforms melody into mastery, passion into profession, and sound into a structured body of knowledge.

The event explored how discipline within formal education helps students actualise their dreams, visions, and career aspirations, while equipping them to think critically, act with precision, and contribute meaningfully to society.

In his welcome address, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Prof. Gbenga Fasiku, commended the guest lecturer, principal officers, and students in attendance. He emphasised the significance of studying music as an integral part of human existence.

“Music is one of the oldest expressions of the human spirit. It is the heartbeat of memory, the architect of rhythm, and a bridge between the visible and the invisible. It consoles, inspires courage, preserves heritage, and dignifies worship,” he said.

The Chairman of the occasion, Lanre Agbaje, lauds the university in nurturing talented and intellectually sound students. He urged the management to review academic curricula by introducing more combined degree programmes to better align with students’ interests and  global demands.

“Students should be exposed to interdisciplinary learning. Combined degree programmes, such as Music and Economics, can enhance confidence and broaden career opportunities. In addition, the ability to effectively engage with Artificial Intelligence is essential for building a promising future,” he stated.

In his goodwill message, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simeon Bamire, commended the alumni for their continued support and commitment to the growth of the institution.

“This occasion celebrates our alumni and their contributions. Government efforts alone are insufficient to meet institutional needs; alumni support remains vital in developing the talents within our university,” he said.

Delivering the keynote lecture, the guest speaker and founder of CHOPIN, Lanre Delana, highlighted the interdisciplinary and multifaceted nature of formal music education. He explained that music intersects with fields such as mathematics, science, medicine, and technology, noting that its structural and analytical components contribute to intellectual development.

“Music education equips students with intellectual, technical, and creative skills applicable across various professions. There is a strong relationship between music, mathematics, science, and medicine, which enhances cognitive development,” he noted.

He further emphasised the importance of structured and institutionalised music training, describing it as a pathway to acquiring relevant certification and developing a multidimensional skill set.

“Education provides the certification required to explore diverse career opportunities. Beyond the certificate itself, the process exposes individuals to broader life experiences and knowledge systems,” he added.

As part of his contribution to advancing music education, Delana donated a brand-new two-manual organ, valued at over ₦25 million, to the Department of Music.

He also pledged to donate an additional organ and proposed the establishment of an Organ Study Centre to further support training and performance.

   Picture of the proposed Lanre Delano Centre for Organ Studies

The event also featured cultural and dramatic performances by students from the Departments of Linguistics, Music, and Dramatic Arts, showcasing rich traditional heritage and entertaining attendees.

The programme concluded with the presentation of awards and souvenirs to the guest lecturer and other contributors in recognition of their significant impact on the development of the university.