Classical Music Concerts in Abuja: An Exclusive Interview with Mrs. Patience Ehi Ekwere

African Art Times correspondent sat down with Mrs. Patience Ehi Ekwere, the visionary organizer behind "Night of Classics with Pat," a highly acclaimed classical concert series in Abuja, Nigeria. In this exclusive interview, Mrs. Ekwere shares her insights on the world of classical music, her experiences, and her vision for the future.

Mrs. Ekwere: "I've always been passionate about classical music, and I wanted to create a platform that would promote this genre in Nigeria. Our group's style is a fusion of indigenous and non-indigenous influences, showcasing the works of Nigerian composers who are making significant contributions to the classical music scene."

Mrs. Ekwere: "Our concert series stands out because of its innovative format, which features accompaniments, solos, duets, trios, and quartets. We've had the privilege of working with some of the best accompanists and soloists in Abuja, and we provide a platform for upcoming talents to showcase their skills. This approach has allowed us to maintain a fresh and exciting sound that resonates with our audience."

Mrs. Ekwere: "Funding is indeed a significant challenge, but we've been fortunate to have the support of friends, corporate sponsors, and patrons who believe in our vision. We've also had to be creative in our approach, exploring new revenue streams and partnerships that help us sustain our concert series. While it's not easy, we're committed to delivering exceptional performances that justify the investment of our audience and supporters.

Mrs. Ekwere: "Teamwork is essential to our success. We have a talented team of performers, instrumentalists, and technical crew who work together seamlessly to deliver an exceptional concert experience. We foster a collaborative environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and mutual respect. By doing so, we're able to bring out the best in each other and create a truly unforgettable experience for our audience."

Mrs. Ekwere: "We're always on the lookout for exceptional talent, and we've been fortunate to discover some incredible musicians through our concerts and performances. We look for individuals who share our passion for classical music, possess exceptional technical skill, and have a strong work ethic. We also provide opportunities for upcoming musicians to showcase their talents and gain experience performing with our group."

Mrs. Ekwere: "We've been grateful to receive support from some individuals and corporate bodies such as Transcorp, who has been our backbone and MTN who believe in our mission. While the support has been invaluable, we recognize that there's still much work to be done to promote classical music in Nigeria. We look forward to partnering with more stakeholders who share our vision and are committed to supporting the arts."

Mrs. Ekwere: "I'm driven by the beauty and timeless appeal of classical music. I believe it has the power to inspire, uplift, and unite people across cultures and generations. By sharing this genre with the Abuja community, we're not only promoting cultural enrichment but also providing a platform for social cohesion and community building."

Mrs. Ekwere: "Two significant challenges we've faced are funding and commercialization of the art. To overcome these challenges, we've had to be innovative in our approach, seeking out new partnerships and revenue streams while remaining true to our artistic vision. We're committed to delivering exceptional performances that justify the investment of our audience and supporters.

Mrs. Ekwere: "My advice would be to stay focused, persistent, and true to your artistic vision. Building a successful concert series takes time, effort, and perseverance. We've learned that it's essential to be adaptable, innovative, and open to new ideas and collaborations. It's also crucial to prioritize quality, engage with your audience, and continuously evaluate and improve your performances. By doing so, you'll be well on your way to building a successful and sustainable concert series."

Mrs. Ekwere: "I would like to encourage the Nigerian classical music community to continue promoting and celebrating our rich cultural heritage. I envision a future where classical music is widely appreciated and recognized as an integral part of Nigerian culture. With the support of stakeholders, patrons, and the government, I believe we can create a thriving classical music scene that showcases the best of Nigerian talent and provides opportunities for artistic growth and development."