TUTOR SPOTLIGHT: SAOFINAO UTUMAPU

For Saofinao Utumapu, music has always been a central part of his life. But never did he think he would be playing live music in a band for a living!

This term, we caught up with Lewis Eady Music School tutor Saofinao Utumapu about his musical journey.

LEMS: LET’S START FROM THE BEGINNING!

SAOFINAO: I am a classically trained pianist, band musician, and student. I have been teaching keyboard at Lewis Eady Music School since 2021.

LEMS: YOU WERE CLASSICALLY TRAINED. DO YOU STILL PLAY THAT GENRE OF MUSIC?

SAOFINAO: I don't play classical music anymore, but I draw from this training and experience to carry out my performances these days. The music I now focus on is the opposite of this genre, ranging from gospel to pop to even rock at times, but not a day goes by that I don't appreciate my classical piano lessons.

I needed an 'arena' to redevelop and practise my new playing style; for me, that was church. I played for a live choir every week and learned how to play by ear, which in the beginning, was a new and daunting task for me. My classical piano lessons and church helped me learn and eventually redevelop my playing style, which is still evolving.

LEMS: WHAT IS YOUR INSPIRATION BEHIND PERFORMING AND TEACHING?

SAOFINAO: I absolutely love music. My entire life has been dedicated to and centralised around music, so I could share my gift at church. The joy I feel when listening to even the simplest tunes is something I have always wanted to share with others, as long as they're willing to put in the work. 

LEMS: WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU'RE NOT TEACHING AT LEWIS EADY MUSIC SCHOOL?

SAOFINAO: I'm still a tertiary student, so I'll either be studying and attending classes or practising with my band "Major7even" for any upcoming performances. These rehearsals are where I practise the most. I also like cooking – similar to music, it calms me down, especially after a busy day. And eating. I love eating :)

LEMS: WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS?

SAOFINAO: Initially, I planned to receive my Bachelor of Musical Arts, continue with a teaching diploma and eventually teach music in secondary schools while teaching piano on the side. However, I've recently had a taste of the "showman life" - playing live music! The positive reaction from the different audiences and crowds made me reconsider what I actually want to strive for in the future.

Plans change, you have new experiences, you meet new people. For example, never in my life did I think I'd be playing live music in a band for a living!  My future is quite unsure, but I know it will be in music and utilising my talent from God.

Learn a musical instrument from passionate musicians, like Saofinao. Enrol for music lessons with Lewis Eady Music School today.