Abuja- The French Institute of Nigeria said on Friday in Abuja that it was committed to promoting Nigerian artistes by providing them a stage to showcase their talents.
The Cultural Programme Officer of the institute, Ms Alice O’Reilly, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at a concert to mark the World Music Day.
O’Reilly said that the concert was aimed at promoting young talented artistes, particularly the Abuja-based ones.
She said that there were not many places where artistes could perform in Abuja unlike, Lagos.
The cultural officer said that the institute was bringing many artistes, both house-hold and upcoming ones, to perform at the concert.
“This year, we are willing to promote the arts in general and music in particular.
“One of the main goals of the French Institute of Nigeria is to encourage creativity and provide a stage/stall to young Nigerian talents who desire to showcase their artworks.
“Nigeria is our host country, so the French Institute would like to support and showcase Abuja-based artists, especially young and talented ones.
“It aims at a large audience and is working to popularise musical practice for the young and not-so-young people from all social backgrounds,” she said.
NAN reports that artistes who would be performing at the concert include: Julietta (Queen of Pop); Blaqboi; Mike Wonder; Oso Onidirin; Maxsteel and Jayson Gold.
Others are: Noel Emp’raw; Bem Sar; Bullet T; Lady Ucha; Akawo D Tax Collector; Root Boy Panama; Lady Joy; Igbom Kuta and Diamond Star Band.
The Intercontinental Band; Lawrence Llyod Benson; Papa Icosa; I Rep Diamond Crew; MC-Maquine (Ray power FM), are also expected to perform.
Assorted music styles like Pop, R&B, Jazz, AfroBeat, Rap, Makossa, Rock, Reggae, Afropop, Blues and Classical would also be performed “all in one great and unique show”.
The concert also featured an art market and exhibition to support creative minds by allowing them to showcase and sell Nigerian products.
The World Music Day started in Paris, France in 1982, in an all-night music celebration to mark the beginning of the summer solstice.
Since then, the festival, called “La Fête de la Musique” in French, had become an international phenomenon, celebrated in more than 460 cities in 110 countries. (NAN)
