10-year-old saxophonist, Temitayo Kayode, aka Temmy Sax, speaks with TOFARATI IGE on his career, education and family
What school do you attend?
I am currently a JSS2 student of King’s College, Victoria Island, Lagos.
How did you develop interest in music?
I have always loved music, especially the instruments. I started learning the talking drum and saxophone at the age of four but I picked particular interest in playing the saxophone and I started playing at the age of six. I became more interested in the saxophone after watching some videos onYoutube. Thankfully, my parents were able to identify my interest and they further encouraged me by buying me a saxophone.They also got a teacher for me to get better.
Who taught you how to play the saxophone?
The name of my teacher is Mr. Yemi Oduwale.
How many songs have you recorded?
I have recorded only one song titled, Grace.
Can you mention some of the big events you have performed at?
I have performed at several events, especially in churches including the National Convention of the Redeemed Christian Church of God; TREM Headquarters, Lagos; Rhema International, Los Angeles; RCCG Victory House, Hollywood; RCCG Victory House, London; RCCG, Istanbul, Turkey; CAC, Tottenham, London; International Christian Centre, California; 7horns of Joshua Gospel Concert; Beejay Sax Live 2018; Genesis Fashion Show; and God’s Children Got Talent competition. I have also performed during the end-of-year thanksgiving services of companies such as Amni International Petroleum, Wema Bank, Sterling Bank, among others.
Who are your role models?
My role models are Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Abolaji Banjoko (Beejay Sax), Segun Oluwayomi, Mike Aremu, Jerry Omole and Gerald Albright.
Can you recall some of the important people you have met?
I have met many important personalities such as Pastor and Pastor (Mrs.) Adeboye; Vice President Yemi Osinbajo and his wife, Oludolapo; Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, and his wife, Bolanle; Pastor Mike Okonkwo (TREM), Mike Aremu, among others.
Apart from English, can you speak your native language?
Yes, I can speak a bit of Yoruba.
Apart from playing the saxophone, what other interests do you have?
I love to solve mathematical problems and play chess.
How do you make sure that your musical activities don’t affect your studies?
Weekdays are dedicated to my academics, while I learn the saxophone on weekends.
What’s your best subject in school?
My best subjects are mathematics and further mathematics.
In what ways have your parents helped your career?
My parents have been very supportive. They make sure I don’t lack anything that will improve my performance. They have really devoted their time and finances to help me.
When was the last time you were scolded by your parents, and what did you do wrong?
My parents scold me practically everyday. The last time I was scolded was for not reading my books.
What are some of the most important lessons you have learnt from your parents?
I have learnt to be prayerful, have trust in God, be humble and to have respect for the elderly.
In what ways do you think children can be encouraged to develop their talent?
Children can be encouraged to develop their talents by paying attention to the areas of their interests. Their parents or guardians can also get them a teacher or couch to train them so they can get better and professional.
What do you think the government can do to make Nigeria a better place for children?
I want the government to invest more in security and provide good social amenities for the people. They should also invest more in education.
If you were opportuned to be in a leadership position for one day, what would you do?
I would stop corruption, help the less privileged and also invest in education for children.
What’s your plan for Children’s Day?
I will celebrate Children’s Day by singing praise in church, then I will visit an orphanage home, where I will play with the children and teach them how to play the saxophone.
What are your future ambitions?
I would love to become a medical doctor, pastor and multi-instrumentalist.
What are your hobbies?
I love to read books, listen to gospel music and watch cartoons.
How do you like to dress?
I like to dress corporately. I also like to wear native attire; it all depends on the type of event I am attending.
How do you relax?
I unwind by playing with friends in the park.
Source : https://punchng.com/living-ther-dreams-i-study-on-weekdays-play-saxophone-on-weekends-temmy-sax/
