Performances & Artistic Practice

Ronke Aluko
Award-Winning Nigerian Percussionist | Vocalist | Composer | Music Educator | Artistic Leader

Ronke Aluko is an award-winning Nigerian percussionist, vocalist, composer, music educator and artistic leader with over 20 years of professional experience spanning live performance, African music, Gospel music, composition and music education.

Widely recognised as a pioneering female percussionist, Ronke is celebrated for her exceptional musicianship and versatility. She is recognised as the first female percussionist in Nigeria and West Africa to attain ABRSM Grade 8 in Percussion, an achievement that reflects her outstanding technical ability, discipline and commitment to musical excellence.

A highly accomplished multi-instrumentalist, Ronke performs on the xylophone, talking drum, drum set and a wide range of African percussion instruments, while also bringing a distinctive strength to vocal performance. Her artistic practice combines the richness of African musical heritage with contemporary performance, creating engaging experiences for diverse audiences.

Over the course of her career, Ronke has performed across Nigeria and the United Kingdom in major concert venues, churches, universities, theatres, cultural events and music festivals. Her performance credits include appearances at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, where she ministered with her crew in the Iseoluwa Benefit Concert alongside leading Gospel artistes.

She has also shared performance platforms with distinguished musicians and ministers including Lara George, Moji Alawiye, Yomi Ajayi, Tosin Alao, Segun Oluwayomi (Omo Arugbo Ojo) and Jerry Sax. Her performance experience extends to the MUSON Diploma Band and MUSON Orchestra, including participation in Christmas carol performances, as well as ministry and performances at churches and Christian events across Nigeria and the UK.

Ronke's artistic versatility extends beyond performance. She has rearranged and performed “Eri Okan” by King Sunny Ade on the xylophone, recorded and released a six-track album titled Erujeje in 2011, and has worked as a recording artist with Wole Oni, Yamaha Ambassador. Her creative xylophone performances have also gained significant online attention.

Her professional journey includes leadership and mentorship roles within the music sector. She served as Head of Percussion and Music Instructor at Masha Music Academy, Lekki, Lagos, where she taught and mentored emerging musicians, directed ensembles and prepared students for internationally recognised music examinations. She has also been involved with organisations including Kingdom Minstrel for Christ (KMC), Gold Heart Mission (GHM) and the RCCG National Praise Team.

Ronke's work has received media recognition both nationally and internationally. She was featured on Agogo Ayo, an African Magic programme broadcast in South Africa, in 2016, and was also featured on Orisun TV, Lagos, in 2013. Through these platforms, she has contributed to the visibility and appreciation of African percussion and contemporary Nigerian Christian music.

As a composer and artistic leader, Ronke is passionate about preserving African musical heritage while encouraging innovation and nurturing the next generation of musicians. Her work encompasses performance, composition, ensemble leadership, mentoring and music education, with a particular interest in the expressive possibilities of African percussion.

Education & Professional Qualifications

Ronke Aluko has recently bagged her Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) with a UK teaching licence and Qualified Teacher's Status (QTS).

She also holds a Postgraduate Diploma and Master's degree in Music Education from the University of Lagos, is a graduate of the MUSON School of Music, Onikan, Lagos, and holds a B.Sc. in Business Administration from the University of Ilorin.

Her musical qualifications include multiple ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) certifications, including Grade 8 Percussion, Grade 5 Voice and Grade 7 Theory of Music.

Artistic Vision

Ronke Aluko's artistic vision is rooted in the belief that African music is both a powerful expression of cultural identity and a dynamic force within the global music landscape. Through her performances, compositions, teaching and mentorship, she seeks to celebrate African musical traditions, inspire audiences and empower emerging musicians.

Her journey continues to bring together faith, African heritage, musical excellence, education and contemporary artistic expression, positioning her as a distinctive voice in African percussion and music performance.