Join us Wednesday June 12 at 7pm for an unforgettable evening of music at the 'Sacred & Classical Echoes' concert, where the genius of iconic composers will transport you on a journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration. Through a carefully curated selection of sacred and classical art songs and instrumental works, we'll delve into the depths of human experience, evoking feelings of love, empathy, despair, and awe.
These timeless masterpieces will be performed by the talented Emmanuel Solomon (tenor), Jacob MacDonald (cello), and Ogooluwa Sobukola (flute).
Don't miss this extraordinary concert event. Admission by donation
Emmanuel Solomon - Tenor
Tenor, Emmanuel Solomon is an independent artist who identifies not only as a classical tenor, but as a cross over artist who continues to hone his skill with interests in musical styles and genres that range from Christian/Gospel to Neo African-Western, popular and world music and other musical subgenres.
Over the years, Emmanuel has garnered experiences through several performance opportunities. Highlights of such performances include featuring on several occasions as a soloist with the Symphony Nova Scotia (SNS) in their Family series concerts and Link Up events for schools, the Nova Scotia Youth Orchestra's (NSYO) North Preston Black History Month concert, the Chebucto community choir Serenade concerts; the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21; the Cecilia Concerts Series where he shared the stage with Met opera star and soprano, Harolyn Blackwell at the Portia White commemoration concert Genius Child: Portia White at Town Hall in October 2019. He has also participated and competed internationally in choral festivals and competitions at the INTERKULTUR's 9th Johannes Brahms International Choral Festival & Competitions in the summer of 2015 in Werningerode Germany, and the World Choir Games International Choral Festivals and Competitions in July, 2016 in Sochi Russia where he won gold and silver laurels with a choral ensemble. Other performances include two returning recitals Evenings @ the Government House with pleasurable invitations from the Honourable Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia and his wife, Arthur J. and Patsy LeBlanc; amongst other workshops, concerts and recitals in churches and concert halls across Canada. Most recent performances are at the "Carols for Christmas Eve" and "Sounds of Spring" concerts at Dominion-Chalmers United Church in Ottawa, and Christmas dinner event at the home of former Governor-General of Canada, Michaëlle Jean as well as at her foundation both in Ottawa.
Emmanuel has worked at different points in his career in various positions as a tenor section lead, composer and music director. All these experiences have afforded him the skills to be competent as a performer, composer, director, and instructor, and to guide students, irrespective of their age and abilities.
Jacob MacDonald - Cello
Born into a musical family of 8 siblings, Jacob started learning to play the piano at age 3, and began studying both the violin and cello a few years later. He graduated with a piano performance degree from Dalhousie University, receiving the University Medal in Music, and completed a Masters degree and a Graduate Diploma in Cello Performance at the University of Ottawa. He is currently studying cello at the University of Michigan under the guidance of Professor Richard Aaron. He has participated in several music festivals, including Scotia Festival of Music, PRISMA Summer Academy, Festival of the Sound, and the Kiwanis Music Festival, where he won the 2019 Piano Rose Bowl. Jacob has appeared 5 times as soloist in Dalhousie Symphony Orchestra’s Concerto Night series, and is also a winner of UOttawa’s concerto competition and Chamberfest’s Rising Stars competition. Jacob is a cellist in the Windsor Symphony Orchestra, and has also played with the National Arts Centre Orchestra and Detroit Opera. He has received many awards and scholarships, including the Georg Tintner Prize and the Fountain Prize in Music, and is grateful for the support of Nova Scotia Talent Trust. He is also an experienced Suzuki teacher. Jacob’s desire is to use his musical gifts for the glory of God.
Ogo-Oluwa Sobukola - Flute
Ogo-Oluwa Sobukola is a Nigerian flutist known for his captivating performances and technical mastery. His musical journey began at 16 with the recorder, followed by the flute at 17. His exceptional talent was recognized by his music teacher, leading to participation in the MUSIQUEST competition, where he emerged as the first runner-up.
Ogo-Oluwa's professional training includes studies at the MUSON School of Music, where he received the David Nwamara prize for best graduating woodwind student in 2015. He has also studied under renowned flutists, including Patricia Creighton at Dalhousie University's Fountain School of Performing Arts.
His impressive performance resume includes solo appearances with Symphony Nova Scotia and the Dalhousie Orchestra's prestigious 'Concerto Night'. He has also performed at notable events such as the Commonwealth Head of Government Meeting 2015 (CHOGM) in Malta and Culture Week in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Ogo-Oluwa is set to resume his master’s degree in Flute Performance at the University of Ottawa this September, further refining his artistic expression. He is also a guest performer with the Pepperell's Band, regularly sharing his talents as a guest musician during their concerts.
As a chamber and orchestral musician, Ogo-Oluwa has participated in international tours and masterclasses with esteemed flutists, including Demarre McGill and Diana Baroni. He continues to captivate audiences with his expressive and nuanced flute playing.