“A night of soulful storytelling and raw talent, where experience and youthful energy shared the same stage.”
There is something seriously infectious about the energy of the young musicians at Guildhall. You can’t help but get swept up in their talent and the pure joy they bring to performing—it’s like it radiates off the stage. That was definitely the vibe at Milton Court, where the Guildhall Jazz Orchestra and Choir teamed up with the incredible British-Nigerian singer-songwriter Ola Onabulé. From the moment Ola stepped out and casually welcomed us with, “Welcome to my wooden-panelled living room,” you just knew you were in for something special. The whole atmosphere felt laid-back, warm, and like everyone was there just to enjoy some really great music.
Ola Onabulé knows how to own a stage, and this performance proved it. His charm, humor, and stunning voice made for a night that felt effortless and genuinely engaging. Every song came with a story, delivered with his signature elegance. He introduced Ballad of the Star Crossed by talking about a chilling crime he’d seen online, turning it into a haunting and emotional piece. Another standout was his tribute to Lagos, inspired by his 11 years growing up there—a vibrant and heartfelt nod to the city’s complexity and what it gave him.
The Guildhall Jazz Orchestra and Choir were right there with him, matching his energy and passion. You could feel the connection between them and Onabulé—it wasn’t just music; it was a shared celebration of rhythm and storytelling. Watching him move, dance, and live through every note while the orchestra played was pure magic. The students brought a mix of precision and raw enthusiasm to every piece, and you could tell they were feeding off Ola’s energy.
The arrangements were something else—an amazing blend of jazz, soul, and funk that felt both timeless and modern. Ola’s voice, with its crazy three-and-a-half octave range, soared over it all, tackling themes like love, resilience, and social justice. It wasn’t just a performance; it felt like he was inviting us to reflect on real issues while enjoying incredible music.
The night wasn’t just a showcase for Ola’s artistry but also a massive win for the young musicians of Guildhall. Seeing them share the stage with someone of his calibre was inspiring and a real reminder of how important it is to support institutions that foster this kind of talent.
If you ever get the chance to catch a Guildhall performance, don’t think twice. They’re not just putting on concerts—they’re creating something truly special, and you’ll walk away feeling lucky to have been part of it.
I was at the concert. It was marvellously and memorably outstanding. Thank you for sharing this heartwarming and beautiful review and account of an unforgettable experience. Thank you to Ola for sharing and blessing us all with his artistry, soul, music and talent,
And much thanks also to the Guildhall School of Music students for their brilliance and contribution to the success of the concert.
Thank you 😊