In an effort to challenge gender norms and empower women in a field often seen as male-dominated, Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) has launched a concert series for female organists from various churches across Nigeria. The series, titled “Ladies at the Organ,” aims to showcase and promote women in music.
Held at the MFM International Headquarters in Onike-Iwaya, the inaugural concert sought to break stereotypes while providing a platform for women to excel in the musical world. Hosted by Dr. (Mrs.) Folashade Elizabeth Olukoya, the wife of the General Overseer of MFM, the event brought together female organists from various churches and cathedrals under the Association of Nigerian Female Organists (ANFO). The event was a celebration of their talents, offering a chance to inspire more women to pursue organ playing.
Dr. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya, the General Overseer of MFM Worldwide and Patron of ANFO, shared his commitment to supporting the growth of women in the music industry. He and his wife, Dr. Folashade, have made it a priority to encourage more women to embrace the organ and develop their musical skills. In line with this vision, the Olukoyas have established an Organ School at Mountain Top University to provide top-tier training for students passionate about learning the organ.
As an accomplished organist and multi-instrumentalist himself, Olukoya emphasized the importance of the organ, calling it “the Queen of all instruments.” He explained that ANFO’s creation is aimed at motivating and inspiring women to enter the organ world, which has traditionally been male-dominated. The organization seeks to foster the growth of female organists by providing access to organs, promoting professional development, and encouraging networking.
Olukoya also highlighted MFM’s dedication to quality music education, stating that both he and his wife have a shared vision to offer young people excellent training in various musical instruments. He believes that investing in music education is crucial for refining music and creating opportunities to boost the economy.
MFM has been taking active steps to support young musicians by offering scholarships for music studies at both local and international institutions. The church has sent young talents to study music in countries such as the United States, South Africa, and France. Recently, four young musicians were sponsored to pursue bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music in Canada, the UK, and the US.
In addition, MFM has donated musical instruments to Nigerian universities, including the University of Lagos and Lagos State University, to further encourage music education. The church also organizes the MFM International Accapella and Choir Competitions, where young people can showcase their musical abilities in various genres, including classical, Negro spirituals, native airs, and contemporary music.
Dr. (Mrs.) Folashade Elizabeth Olukoya, the Chief Host, expressed that the Female Organists’ Concert series is designed to break barriers and empower future generations of female organists. She emphasized her commitment to using her position as the wife of the General Overseer to positively impact women and encourage them to excel in their careers, businesses, and professional fields. Mrs. Olukoya described women as “instruments of excellence” specially created and endowed by God.
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