Peter Olalekan Adedokun is a versatile master drummer, drum maker, performer and trainer. He is also the founder of the Nations Rhythm Festival. In this interview with Adewale Oshodi, he speaks on his love for drums and the therapeutic benefits of the art excerpts.
Despite being a professional drummer, how did the concept for the Nations Rhythm Festival occur to you?
Twelve years ago, the concept was born. Then, I served as the company’s lead percussionist for Christopher Emmanuel’s choreographed and founded Alajota Dance Company. My participation in numerous festivals both domestically and internationally as well as my master drummer status inspired me to work toward creating a festival that will unite people from various countries and artistic and cultural subgenres.
What did the festival do for you?
The inaugural festival took place from July 6 to 8 at the Alliance Francaise in Ibadan. We had workshops and training the first two days, and the major event was on the third day. No matter their age, gender, color, or location, we managed to create a festival atmosphere where everyone could come together in peace, cooperation, and unity.
The Nations Rhythm Festival also aims to unite individuals from all over the world in celebration of music’s ability to speak every language. Different national and international artists represented their cultures during the event through performances, lectures, and workshops. More than only music, people also learned about rhythm and drumming, as well as how some of the most primitive technologies are still being used today in non-musical contexts to improve modern life.
Was there any reason you chose Ibadan for the maiden edition?
I reside here in Ibadan and I felt Ibadan should host the inaugural edition of the festival. Ibadan is known for being the pacesetter in good things.
Do you intend to bring the event to other cities or even other countries in later editions now that the debut event has been held in Ibadan?
I would absolutely like to move Nations Rhythm Festival to other towns or states in Nigeria and other nations if there are sponsors. People outside of Ibadan and Nigeria can learn about the African drum culture with the correct assistance.
Can you share with us some of the individuals or groups that featured in the maiden edition of the festival?
Those who featured, both physical and virtual are Christopher Emmanuel (Nigeria), Prince Choi (USA), Alajotas Dance Company (Nigeria), James Tyson (UK), Hatnar (Nigeria), Baba Adesanya Adeyeye (Nigeria), Jonathan Murray (USA), UNIBADAN Drums Ensemble (Nigeria), Diane Roberts (Canada), Samskiddo (Nigeria), myself, the Drumsvoice and many more. The inaugural address / lecture was given by Professor P.A Ogundeji of the Linguistics and African Languages Department of the University offestival
Do you believe the attendees, hosts, participants, and even the nation benefited from the festival?
People learned about drums’ therapeutic properties at the festival’s drum workshops. Additionally, they learned how to perform a variety of native musical instruments. I must say that people were at ease while taking in the numerous musical performances, dances, and rhythms during the many shows.
Due to the festival’s international appeal, Ibadan and the nation as a whole saw an increase in tourists. This contributes to the economic development of the host nation and city. Participants from other countries learned a lot of good things about Nigeria. Most of them were unaware of how developed Nigeria is until recently.
Where have you performed as a master drummer?
I have given performances and workshops all throughout the nation, as well as overseas nations including the UK, Germany, the USA, Croatia, and South Africa, among others.
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