Within the realm of classical music, where the resonant melodies of symphonic instruments intertwine with the timeless compositions of maestros, a singular figure has arisen from Nigeria’s core, captivating audiences both at home and around the globe. Olawale Olayinka popularly known as “Olawale Handel”, a virtuoso violinist and violist, not only graced the grand stage of King Charles’ coronation concerts but also brought a new dimension to the Nigerian classical music scene and established his reputation as one of the best violinists and music educators in Nigeria.
His remarkable journey, talents, and dedication have not only made him a household name in his homeland but have also elevated the appreciation of classical music within Nigeria’s diverse cultural tapestry. Join us on a melodic exploration of Olawale Olayinka’s life and the harmonious influence he has had on the world of music.
Olawale Olayinka’s remarkable journey as a virtuoso violinist has been punctuated by three extraordinary performances at notable UK royal events. In May 2023, Olawale graced the grand stage in Croydon, Britain, as he collaborated with the Black British Classical Foundation and the Brixton Chamber Orchestra to honor His Majesty, King Charles III’s Coronation. His breathtaking performance of Zadok the Priest by G.F Handel, Coronation Mass in C, by W.A. Mozart and Edward Elgar’s Coronation Ode not only showcased his exceptional talent but also underlined his presence in the heart of royal celebrations.
The year before, in June 2022, Olawale participated in the Platinum Jubilee celebration of Her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. He joined forces with the East London School of Music Orchestra and the HACS Philharmonic Orchestra in collaboration with Hackney Council at the Springfield Park bandstand performing “La Ci Darem La Mano” from Don Giovanni by W.A Mozart, Palladio by Karl Jenkins, Capriol Suite No. 2 “Pavane” by Peter Warlock amongst other pieces. During this memorable event, they not only delivered a mesmerizing performance but also had the distinct honor of recording an original composition “The Procession of a Triumphant Jubilee” by the students of ELSOM which Her Late Majesty acknowledged from the Buckingham Palace, leaving an indelible mark on the celebration.
The third royal event in Olawale’s journey unfolded at Hackney Town Hall, London, UK, with Elsom & HACS philharmonic at the King Charles III Coronation concert on Monday 8th May 2023 leading as the principal 2nd violinist he performed the British anthem, Music for the Royal Fireworks by G.F Handel, I Vow To Thee My Country” by Gustav Holst (arr by G Knorr) and other fantastic works. The concert was graced by The Speaker of Hackney Councilor Humaira Garasia, Cllr Anya Sizer, Mayor of Barking and Dagenham Councillor Faruk Choudhury, Lt Col Roderick Morriss TD DL the King’s representative in the Hackney borough and the Mayor of Hackney Philip Glanville demonstrating Olawale’s ability to bring together communities through the universal language of music. These three significant performances reflect Olawale Olayinka’s profound impact on the world of classical music and his role in enriching the cultural fabric of Britain.
In addition to his classical pursuits, Olawale’s musical horizons have expanded into new & innovative genres. He has ventured into groundbreaking collaborations, including partnering with Gabriel Prokofiev, the grandson of the renowned composer Sergei Prokofiev, and Ibukun Sunday of the Nonclassical organization. These collaborations have delved into the realms of experimental and electronic music, where Olawale’s violin prowess blends harmoniously with cutting-edge soundscapes.
Together with Ibukun they unveiled their own original composition “Nostalgia” and “Freedom” which streams on SoundCloud, His willingness to explore new frontiers in music demonstrates his versatility and dedication to pushing the boundaries of his craft. These forays into experimental and electronic genres reflect Olawale Olayinka’s commitment to embracing the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music, cementing his position as a versatile and forward-thinking artist.
Olawale has performed and contributed to other notable events such as “The African Concert Series” in collaboration with BBC World Services and the Nigerian-British Romanian virtuoso pianist Rebecca Omordia in April 2023 performing several indigenous African traditional compositions such as “Ìyá Ni Wúrà”, “Gángan n sọrọ” & “Ririovara” with the Dulcis Ensemble
Olawale’s journey on the performance scene began during his undergraduate days at the University of Lagos, where he gave monthly performances with the Divine Symphony Orchestra in Lagos, Nigeria. He further honed his skills by acquiring violin performance, singing, and music theory certifications from prestigious music institutions, including the Associate Board Royal School of Music in England. In 2015, Olawale’s dedication led him to become a certified Suzuki violin teacher after studying at the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON Diploma School) which led to the founding of the Olawale Handel Music School with the aim of passing on his knowledge to children and teenagers across the country and east Africa.
Subsequently, he joined the Musical Society of Nigeria Symphony Orchestra, participating in their annual Muson Festivals from 2019 to the present day. MUSON, founded in 1983, plays a crucial role in promoting classical and contemporary music in Nigeria. His participation at this year’s festival includes performing the full Handel Messiah Oratorio with the Muson Symphony Orchestra and Choir, and Gala concert with German Maestro Walter Michael Vollhardt performing Graciela Y Buenos Aires by José Bragato, with whom he also performed at the October 2023 German-Nigerian business Conference with Germany Chancellor Olaf Scholz in attendance. Olawale’s contributions also extend to the British Nigerian composer Tunde Jegede’s Muson Ensemble Orchestra, performing his original African compositions. Olawale’s versatility and dedication have also seen him as part of renowned orchestras, including Chineke!, Brixton Chamber Orchestra, Nok Orchestra, Dulcis Ensemble, London Euphonia Orchestra etc, from 2016 to this present day.
