With avid interest and eager anticipation built up from our impactful inaugural outing at Akoka Primary School before the mid-term break, we commenced the first phase of Foster brimming with enthusiasm, driven by our unwavering commitment to our mission. Arriving at the school, the day's final lesson was on, but the pupils' excitement was palpable amidst their lesson as they saw us.

After a brief waiting period, their classes ended. The pupils moved to our learning area, talking and reflecting on our last meeting. Taking a cue from the conversation, we shared snapshots from our inaugural event, triggering a fresh surge of enthusiasm that electrified the atmosphere with eager anticipation.

Finally, we got the pupils to settle in. We kicked off the music appreciation phase of Foster. Armed with some teaching aids (such as a World map, physical demonstration, and other tangible artifacts), we embarked on the journey of imparting knowledge about African music.

The pupils' response was deeply encouraging, their engagement reflecting a genuine interest in what they were being taught. While certain aspects involving African music icons, regions and nations were initially unfamiliar to the children, their insatiable curiosity and desire to learn something fired them up.

As we dug deeper into the music appreciation of African music and its ensembles with the pupils of Akoka Primary School, we witnessed countless "aha" moments—a testament to the pupils’ understanding of new knowledge and the reinforcement of existing understanding. These moments resounded with the profound impact of our efforts and fortified our dedication to our mission to raise a new generation of confident and resilient children who possess a deep appreciation for African music, as well as the skills and knowledge to pursue their artistic aspirations.

Guided by a collective fervor for music education and cultural appreciation, our learning journey pressed forward, imbued with a steadfast sense of purpose. Together, we forged an environment where the pursuit of knowledge transformed into an exhilarating adventure to be savored.

As the voyage through phase I of Foster at Akoka Primary School continued, punctuated by sustained interest, a salient lesson emerged—one that underscored the transcendent power and universal appeal of music education. The experience revealed that the allure and potential for learning through music reach far beyond social boundaries and age, validating the potency of our endeavor.

If you are interested in sharing similar moments with Foster children and would like to be part of our mission at Foster by AML, please click here.

Tolulope Olugbode teaching the pupils of Akoka Primary School, Yaba, music appreciation during Foster.

Our Music Appreciation Journey at Akoka Primary School

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