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By Oluwaseun Ezekiel ilesanmi
In the world of choral music, few names resonate with the same passion, discipline, and global ambition as Oluwaseun Ezekiel ilesanmi, popularly known as D’VOICE. A visionary vocal trainer and director of music, DVoice has dedicated his life to building a musical legacy that starts from the very foundations of childhood and stretches across international borders.
His philosophy is simple yet profound: Catch them young. “My vision for music, as a choral director, is to catch children young,” DVoice states. This mantra has become the bedrock of his work, leading him to nurture raw talents in elementary and high schools, transforming children into disciplined choristers and adults into world-class vocalists.
A New Era at the Chapel of Transfiguration
DVoice’s impact is perhaps most visible at the Chapel of Transfiguration (COT), where his leadership as Director of Music has revitalized the church’s musical identity. The camaraderie that now exists within the COT choir is a testament to the inclusive, family-oriented atmosphere he has cultivated.
This sense of community has resolved a previous challenge: the snapped chain of continuity. Under DVoice’s leadership, membership has surged as parents are encouraged to bring their sons and daughters to join the choir—an initiative that has yielded remarkable results.
The commitment of the choristers is undeniable. While weekly practices officially begin at 6:30 pm on Tuesdays and Fridays, more than 60 percent of the members are already seated and ready by 6:00 pm. Their willingness to put in extra hours for rehearsals, even after Sunday services, speaks volumes about the respect and dedication DVoice has inspired.
Training and Pedagogy: A Standard of Excellence
DVoice’s expertise extends far beyond conducting. As a voice trainer of international repute, he has single-handedly elevated the technical proficiency of the choir. The choristers are no longer reliant solely on rote learning; they can now navigate anthems using the skill of sight-reading.
“I must commend the efforts of the past choirmasters and organists without whom the choir would not have risen to this enviable level,” D’VOICE graciously acknowledges. Yet, it is his personal tutelage that has created opportunities for members to excel in prestigious examinations such as the ABRSM, Trinity College exams, and the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON) graded exams.
This technical rigor has allowed the COT choir to achieve a standard of musical excellence that stands unparalleled in the Anglican Church in Nigeria and, indeed, West Africa. Supported by a team of seasoned organists who assist in voice training before rehearsals, D’VOICE has built a choir that performs classical church music and African compositions with equal finesse.
A Global Reputation
The recognition for D’Voice’s work is mounting. Under his leadership, the Chapel of Transfiguration choir clinched the “Best Choir” award at the Diocesan annual competition in 2017 and garnered African recognition as the best choir in choral works (Standard Category) in 2019. The chapel’s affiliation with the Royal Church Music England and the Hymn Society of Great Britain and Ireland further solidifies its global standing.
D’Voice’s vision is not confined to the church. He travels from one country to another to scout for young talents, dedicating his life to discovering the next generation of singers. He sees a choir that can be compared favourably with the choirs of St. Paul’s Cathedral in London and King’s College, Cambridge.
“I see this choir under my tutelage improving in leaps and bounds because of its teachable spirit, level of commitment, and comportment,” he says. “The journey serves as a testament to the power of music to transcend borders and unite hearts.”
As Oluwaseun Ezekiel Ilesanmi (D’Voice) continues to make waves on the local and international music scenes, his journey serves as an inspiration. As a choirmaster, educator, recitalist, and global vocal trainer, he has carved a niche for himself that echoes internationally.
One thing remains certain: his music and leadership skills will continue to enchant, inspire, and bridge the realms of humanity through the power of song.
