A grand farewell to a maestro: Fredrick Kiggundu bows out in style
After more than a decade at the helm, Fredrick Kiggundu stepped down as Executive Director with a performance that moved many to tears.
Fredrick Kiggundu (centre) stepped down as Executive Director
Farewells for musical legends, especially in the classical realm, are rare in Uganda’s music industry. While we've seen mainstream artists like Sheebah take breaks from the spotlight, such send-offs are almost unheard of in genres like jazz.
But on October 11, the Sheraton Hotel bore witness to a celebration that was as elegant as it was emotional, honouring a man whose life has been steeped in music: Fredrick Kiggundu.
The evening was a tapestry of glamour, heartfelt performances, and a crowd of devoted revelers. It told the story of a man raised under the wings of musical masters, a nurtured talent who rose to lead the country’s most prestigious institution for classical music, Kampala Music School.
After more than a decade at the helm, Fredrick Kiggundu stepped down as Executive Director with a performance that moved many to tears.
His fingers danced across the piano keys with expressive grace, and the silence that followed, punctuated by jubilant applause, spoke volumes. It was a fitting tribute to a leader who not only ran a top-tier music school but also dedicated himself to cultivating the next generation of musical prodigies.
In an interview with Daron of XFM, Fredrick reflected on the impact of his tenure. “Many of today’s jazz and classical artists are products of the Music School. The Kyazze brothers trained here. In fact, 80% of the orchestra that played at Navio’s wedding came through our programs,” he shared.
Though stepping down from his executive role, Fredrick isn’t bidding farewell to the school entirely. He will continue to support key initiatives, including the scholarship program for underprivileged students.
“The celebration of 13 years isn’t about me,” he emphasised.
“It’s about how we continue to elevate the quality of music by creating more opportunities. That’s why the proceeds from this event will go toward nurturing musical talent.”
He also explained that scholarships are awarded based on interest, performance, and dedication in instrumental training.
Fredrick’s musical journey has touched countless lives, through songwriting for notable figures, teaching, and inspiring both young and old.
His legacy is a testament to the power of music to transform, uplift, and awaken the artist within us all.