Topside, a brass band from the United States Naval Forces Europe, conducted a master class for upcoming musicians and instrumentalists in Lagos. The event was hosted by the United States Consulate, Lagos.
Mathew Anderson, assistant director, United States Naval Forces Europe Band, said the Nigerian music industry was wonderful, disclosing that for many years it influenced music in the United States, especially jazz. He also said the background on which the history of Nigerian music was built was shared by American music.
The Topside Brass Band moves round the world to share musical message as it brings people together irrespective of backgrounds and bridges the communication gap between people and countries.
“Communicating through music and sharing cultures is a special thing and this is an opportunity to do that,” Anderson said.
The band also travels and shares the message and opportunities with people such as music students.
Anderson said, “The Topside Brass Band remains committed to sharing travelling, meeting people and interacting sharing culture.”
Afolaranmi Abiodun, administrator of Eko Brass Band, said the master class was an excellent programme that should occur regularly to train those in the musical space. He disclosed that Nigerian music lacked dynamism and balance, advising that the American style of music was worthy of emulation.
Seyi Kehinde, a music lecturer and band leader at the University Of Lagos. said the demonstration of performance showcased unique things including adaptability, innovation and creativity which he said should be emulated in Nigeria. He said it was impressive that the topside brass band was able to interpret Nigerian music using western musical instruments. He said Nigeria needed to be flexible and be in vogue with global trends.
Andrew Okon , a student of the University of Lagos and a participant at the master class, said the class was amazing. He learnt that there had to be a bit of dynamism in music which would give it an easy flow as well as generate good music.
Gbemi Faminu
