Music education, digital economy and the fate of a music graduate in 21st century Nigeria

Abstract

 Since the turn of the 21st century, technological innovations and digital advancements have made the world more closely knitted. The advent of the internet opened doors of access and opportunities that are beneficial to those who engage with it. It has therefore become imperative for students as well as graduates of music to familiarize themselves with the online trend. However, the fate of Nigerian music graduates in an economy where digitization is on a fast increase remains uncertain. There have been calls by music scholars for digitalised music classrooms as well as a review of the curriculum to accommodate the technological demands of the. However, research efforts aimed at documenting the experiences of graduates of music in the labour market are still scanty. Backed by the connectivism theory and narrative inquiry method, forty eight (48) music graduates were interviewed on music curriculum and their state of readiness for job opportunities that require digital expertise. Findings from the study reveals that digital skills are fast becoming an important job qualification as well as the hope for a thriving Nigerian workforce. Also, most music graduates are self-taught in respect to digital skills and the majority who are receptive to acquiring these skills are also advocating that tech-based courses are made compulsory in higher institutions.