Role

:

Composer

Birth

:

April 28, 1935 in Lagos, Nigeria

Death

:

April 14, 2020

 

Akin Euba is a renowned Nigerian composer, musicologist, and pianist who has made significant contributions to the development of African music. He was born on April 13, 1935, in Lagos, Nigeria, to a family of musicians. His father was a church organist, and his mother was a singer. Euba's early exposure to music and his family's musical background influenced his interest in music. Euba began his formal music education at the Trinity College of Music in London, where he studied piano, composition, and musicology. He later earned a Bachelor of Music degree from the University of London and a Master of Music degree from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). He also earned a Ph.D. in musicology from the University of California, Berkeley. Euba's compositions are influenced by African music, particularly the music of the Yoruba people of Nigeria. He has written numerous works for various ensembles, including orchestra, choir, and chamber groups. Some of his notable works include "Ogun," "African Suite," "Yoruba Songs," and "Three Yoruba Songs." Euba's music is characterized by its use of African rhythms, melodies, and harmonies. He often incorporates traditional African instruments, such as the talking drum, into his compositions. His music also reflects his interest in Western classical music, jazz, and other world music traditions. In addition to his work as a composer, Euba is also a respected musicologist. He has written extensively on African music and has published several books, including "Yoruba Drumming: The Dundun Tradition" and "The Music of Africa." He has also served as a professor of music at various universities, including the University of Ife in Nigeria, the University of Pittsburgh, and the University of Michigan. Euba's contributions to the development of African music have been recognized with numerous awards and honors. In 1990, he was awarded the Nigerian National Order of Merit, the highest honor bestowed on a Nigerian citizen for intellectual achievement. He has also been awarded honorary doctorates from several universities, including the University of Pittsburgh and the University of Ghana. Euba's legacy as a composer and musicologist continues to inspire and influence musicians and scholars around the world. His work has helped to bridge the gap between African and Western music traditions and has contributed to a greater understanding and appreciation of African music.

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