Famous American pianist Daniel Solberg, a staple in the professional music scene in Atlanta, and who has earned widespread respect as an organist, and arranger, will join Nigerian opera star Abiodun Koya for her ‘Future Symphony: Days of The Avenger’ concert, in Abuja. He told Daily Trust via e-mail: “I’m so excited to be making my first musical appearance on the African continent with my colleague and entertainer friend, Abiodun Koya. We have enjoyed television and radio appearances in Atlanta, but the thrill of performing together on this international stage will be something to see.”
Solberg also said for those who have not experienced live music in a formal and unique setting like the Future Symphony, “I think you are in for a treat. Abiodun and I will offer a new interpretation of many timeless classics – a lot of these music compositions precede the invention of recording – in such a way that audiences will feel the thread of a living race of humanity in the very notes we produce onstage.”
At Georgia State University Daniel was collaborative pianist and coach for seven years and served as music director for the opera program. From show choirs to symphonic ensembles, his orchestrations have been heard across the United States. He also orchestrated and produced an album of inspirational songs that won the Global Music Award’s ‘Award of Merit’ in 2012. After he graduated summa cum laude from Millikin University, he earned the title of ‘youngest director on the high seas’ and played for many of the biggest cruise ship entertainers.
The headliner, Classical/Opera singer, songwriter, poet, actress and screenwriter Abiodun Koya promises the concert will be an evening of excitement. “Next Saturday, we’ll be showcasing vocal art coming to life in a theatrical, futuristic and sci-fi themed concert,” she had told Daily Trust during an interview.
Koya also said the performances will be filled with melodious mix of the voices of musical greats. “Me and my collaborators will delight your ears and hearts with the world class rendition of the soothing, nostalgic and exhilarating music that classical music is,” she said.
Koya is a Nigerian-born artiste, also known for being the brains behind fan-favourite show The Frankincense Concert from this past Christmas which had in attendance heavyweights of the society. She is one of the very few professionally trained opera singers of African descent and one of the most renowned classical opera singers of her generation. She has performed in some of the most prestigious places in the world, including the White House. Often called the Presidents’ and Kings’ singer, she has performed live at the Democratic National Convention and many more occasions in which the world’s most influential leaders were in attendance.
‘Future Symphony: Days of the Avenger’ is slated for Saturday, April 21st, 2018, at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.
