Mandilas, MUSON Celebrate Magical Christmas

Fadekemi Ajakaiye

It was a night of thrills at this year’s MUSON Mandilas Concert, with soul soothing music to usher in Christmas.

Welcoming the Board of Trustees of Musical Society of Nigeria, distinguished guests, partners, colleagues, and friends of Mandilas, the Group Chief Executive Officers, Mandilas, Mrs. Ola Ayo-Adeloye “This year’s MUSON Mandilas Concert—a cherished tradition that beautifully combines our love for the arts with our unwavering commitment to giving back to society.

“As I stand here today, I reflect on the year gone by, a year marked by significant challenges for our company, our nation, and indeed, our world. From the pressures of a tough economy to the ever-changing dynamics of our industries, the struggles have been real. Yet, through it all, we have witnessed the incredible resilience of the Nigerian people and businesses like ours. “Resilience, after all, is not merely about surviving but thriving despite adversity—and that is the spirit of Mandilas.

“Mandilas has always been more than a business. For nearly 75 years, we have been a part of the fabric of Nigeria, impacting lives and contributing to economic development. As we approach this significant milestone, we recognize that our legacy is not just in what we have built, but in how we have uplifted others. “Our investments in youth empowerment, corporate social responsibility, and initiatives like this concert are a testament to our belief that true success lies in enriching the communities we serve.

“Next year, as we mark 75 years, we usher in a new era—one that promises even greater strides for the company and its people. We are laying the foundation for a future where Mandilas continues to lead, grow, and impact lives positively.

“Tonight’s concert is more than an evening of classical music and Christmas celebration; it is a reminder of the beauty and strength that come from collaboration, creativity, and community. It symbolizes the harmony we strive to create in everything we do—within our company, with our partners, and for the people we serve.
As the melodies fill this hall, let them inspire us to keep pushing forward, to dream bigger, and to work harder towards a brighter, more prosperous Nigeria.”

The General Manager, Legal/Company Secretary, Mrs Iyabosola Olorunfemi, said, “The whole purpose of this event is to usher in the spirit of Christmas, particularly. And it’s been a year on year event, and because Mandilas is in a partnership with the MUSON. So, it’s a yearly event, and the whole idea is to usher in the spirit of Christmas. 
The MUSON Choir was founded in 1995, The MUSON Choir is one of Nigeria’s outstanding choral ensembles. It was established by Sir Emeka Nwokedi and Mrs. Francesca Emmanuel, under the direction of the MUSON Artistes Committee, with the vision of creating a top-tier choir for the society.

Since its inception, the Choir has been an integral part of the MUSON Centre’s vibrant cultural calendar, performing at major events like the Passiontide and Christmas concerts, and closing out the annual MUSON Festival of the Arts with their renowned Choral Concert.

The MUSON Choir’s repertoire is rich and varied and cuts across the major periods of the Western history of music from the Renaissance rough Baroque, Classical, Romantic, 20th Century to the present day. Highlights include masterpieces like: Palestrina’s, Missa Brevisy
Vivaldi’s Gloria, Handel’s Messiah and Ode to St. Cecilia, Bach’s Christmas Oratorio, Mass in B Minor, Mozart’s Requiem, Beethoven Choral Symphony and The Creation which was recently performed.

The choir also brings African and Nigerian choral music into the focus, performing works by renowned composers such as T.K Ekundayo Phlipps, Sam Ojukwu, Laz Ekwuerme, and Ayo Bankole, among others.
Over the years, the MUSON Choir has graced the stage with some markable performances. They have staged full operas like The
Pirates of Penzance by Gilbert & Sullivan, The Bartered Bride by Bedrich Smetana, and The Magic Flute by Mozart. They have also
performed excerpts from major operas, including Opu Jaja, a Nigerían opera by the late Adam Fiberesima.

In October 2022, the MUSON Choir was invited by Her Excellency, Ambassador Nimi Akinkugbe, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Greece, to perform at a special concert celebrating Nigeria’s 62nd Independence Anniversary in Athens. The performance was met with great acclaim by an international audience, including diplomats, government officials, and friends of the Nigerian Embassy. This success led to
invitations from some European countries for a performance tour.
Following the tour also, the Choir was invited by Ambassador Ioannis Platos, the Greek Ambassador to Nigeria, to perform at the Hellenic Embassy in Abuja, where they showcased their exceptional talent to a distinguished audience of diplomats and dignitaries.

The MUSON Choir has earned recognition on international stages. In 2022, they were invited by Chi-Chi Nwanoku of the London Chineke Orchestra to perform at the BBC Proms. The Choir has also performed with visiting choirs from King’s College London and Morehouse College Glee Club from Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Beyond their major performances, the MUSON Choir is also available
for a variety of events, including church services, weddings, birthdays, funeral services, and other social functions. Their signature blend of artistry and elegance makes them a fitting choice for any Occasion.
The Mandilas Choir: In 2018, a few young men and women with a flair for music came together and formed the “Mandilas Choir”. The group
performed for the first time in December 2018 during the company’s annual Christmas party. Ever since, these melodious voices have continued to perform & amaze members of staff during internal events.
The year 2020 marked the first appearance of the choral team at the Muson Carol Concert and it was truly a momentous occasion 2024’s performance will be a celebration of culture thanksgiving, and Christmas. A performance and a message of hope to all this festive season.