How a Father’s Legacy and a Childhood Passion Made Oluwaseun Ezekiel Ilesanmi a Global Voice in Classical Music

From quietly following his father to choir rehearsals at the age of six to performing as a soloist on international stages, Engr. Oluwaseun Ezekiel Ilesanmi has grown into one of Nigeria’s most remarkable soprano soloists. What started as childhood curiosity has become a life’s calling, marked by discipline, excellence, and a deep sense of purpose.

Raised in a musically inclined Christian home, Oluwaseun’s earliest memories of music are tied to his father, a well-known bass singer at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Iloro, in Ilesa, Osun State. “It was my dad of blessed memory who inspired me,” he recalls. “He was always in the choir, and I would tag along with him. That’s how I discovered I had a unique soprano voice.”

Though he never had traditional conservatory training, Oluwaseun developed his skills through constant practice and dedication within his local church community. His musical growth was fueled by consistent rehearsals and a deep love for classical music, which would go on to define his sound and style.

“My values in music are simple: dedication, passion, excellence, and discipline,” he says. “That’s how I’ve been able to sustain this journey.”

A Voice Heard Across Continents

Over the years, Oluwaseun’s voice has taken him far beyond his home state. In 2012, he performed “Hallelujah Chorus” and “God Bless This House” with the Qatar Chorale. In 2022, he was featured with the All Saints Cathedral Choir in Kenya. In 2023, he performed a solo with the Dubai Singers, and in 2024, he had a Christmas solo in London.
Locally, he has been invited to minister at notable churches and gatherings including the Night of Songs at Methodist Church, St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Ago-Woye, Ogun State, and Christ Church Cathedral in Marina, Lagos. He has also appeared on TVC Lagos and sung at several weddings, funerals, and special church services across Eastern and Western Nigeria.

“Wherever I go, the goal is the same. I want people to experience God’s presence through my voice.”

Beyond the Stage

Oluwaseun is not only a performer but also a mentor. He coaches younger singers both online and in person, sharing lessons in vocal technique, spiritual preparation, and the heart of music ministry. He has hosted workshops in various churches across Nigeria and in Qatar. He also serves as the Patron of RCCG Jesus Delegate Choir in Ibadan, Oyo State.
“It gives me great joy to help others grow. I don’t just want to sing well, I want to raise others who can sing with skill and purpose too.”

A Life Anchored in Purpose

For Oluwaseun, music is more than talent or performance. It is ministry. Before stepping on any stage, he prepares spiritually through prayer and fasting, and vocally through intense rehearsals. He sees music as a divine gift, one that carries responsibility.
“Music is a guide, a companion, a gift for life. Even if I take a break, I know I can always return to it. It’s part of who I am.”
His ministry has moved many, and he regularly receives messages from people who say his music brought them comfort, healing, and a deeper connection with God.

Looking to the Future

Oluwaseun has a clear vision for the years ahead. He wants to become a globally recognized soprano soloist, known for excellence and depth. He also dreams of recording albums, touring internationally, and hosting classical worship concerts that blend spiritual impact with musical brilliance.

“My dream is to touch lives across nations and to inspire other classical musicians to believe in their voice. I want to show them that with consistency and God’s help, they can go far too.”