Imọlẹayọ Balogun’s Vision for Music Education Continues Through SAMAC

Jazz saxophonist, composer and music educator Imọlẹayọ Balogun continues to contribute to music education in Lagos through the Saxophone Music Academy (SAMAC), an institution he founded in 2007.

What started as a small music training initiative has developed into an academy offering structured programmes in classical, contemporary, jazz and traditional Nigerian music.

Based in Egbeda, Lagos, SAMAC provides training for students interested in developing their musical abilities, whether as beginners or aspiring professionals.

The academy’s programmes include instrumental training in saxophone, strings, brass, woodwind, piano and drums, alongside courses in harmony, composition, arranging and jazz improvisation.

It also incorporates Nigerian traditional instruments into its curriculum, creating opportunities for students to explore indigenous musical expressions alongside Western music traditions.

Balogun, who studied at the MUSON School of Music and the University of Lagos, where he obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music, has also led several musical ensembles throughout his career.

His work as a performer, composer, arranger and educator has informed the academy’s approach to developing musicians with a broad understanding of different musical traditions.

As part of its activities for the year, SAMAC will host its End-of-Year Concert on December 19, 2026.

The concert will feature performances from students and faculty members, with presentations covering jazz, classical music and traditional Nigerian instruments.

Beyond celebrating the students’ achievements, the event reflects the academy’s continued commitment to providing structured music education and creating platforms where emerging musicians can develop their skills.

The concert will hold at the SAMAC Centre in Egbeda, Lagos, and admission will be free.