FELA KUTI’S LEGACY CELEBRATED WITH NEW SCHOLARSHIP AT LONDON’S TRINITY LABAN

Fela studied composition and trumpet performance at Trinity Laban (then Trinity College of Music), arriving in 1958. He went on to become one of the World’s best-loved musicians, producer, political radical, arranger, outlaw, and inventor of the Afrobeat sound which continues to be a major influence on today’s charts. Through his music and his activism, Fela also became a leading figure within Nigerian and pan-African politics.

Funded by Partisan Records in celebration of Fela’s remarkable legacy, the new scholarship will be awarded on merit to a talented musician from Africa or of African heritage following nominations from the conservatoire’s Heads of Jazz and Composition. In addition to the financial award, the student will be benefit from bespoke artistic and industry focused mentoring from Partisan Records and Fela’s grandson Made Kuti, who is a fellow Trinity Laban alum.

Trinity Laban Director of Music Havilland Willshire comments –

"I’m thrilled to announce this gift from Partisan Records and The Fela Anikulapo-Kuti Estate. The new scholarship furthers Trinity Laban’s commitment to widening access for talented and dedicated students and honours an incredible musical and political figure who is part of our innovative and creative community."

Partisan Records comments –

"Through his music and activism, Fela built his legacy upon the ideas of giving back to the community, inspiring creativity and curiosity, and pushing boundaries. This scholarship is a prime example of one of the many ways this legacy continues to live on and inspire young people to this day. We’re proud to help bring this opportunity to future Trinity Laban students. We also look forward to instilling some of Partisan’s own industry expertise and experience into the next generation of creative minds."

Made Kuti comments –

"My time at Trinity Laban really allowed me a lot of creative space to experiment and explore my sound with a lot of guidance and support from a very passionate and accomplished staff. It played a major role in helping me see just how much there is to investigate and discover in music and has of course influenced how I've explored the music of my father and grandfather I have consumed for so long, and how I express myself through my own music."

More about Trinity Laban Trinity Laban is London’s Creative Conservatoire: an internationally celebrated centre of excellence, offering world-class training in dance, music and musical theatre. Trinity Laban identifies, supports and develops a diverse intake of talented performers and creators, wherever they may be found and throughout their creative lives. The supportive atmosphere, outstanding landmark buildings and innovative curriculum at Trinity Laban instil technical excellence and enable creativity to flourish, transforming those with potential into resourceful, enterprising and adaptable artistic leaders. Trinity Laban also provides exciting opportunities for the public to encounter dance and music, and to access arts health programs. Visit their website for more information.