Zim: Choral Music Festival attracts more participants

Speaking to NewsDay, college executive director Rachael Jera-Chigwanda said they were stunned by the growth of the festival which has helped to develop talent. Jera-Chigwanda said the event acted as a platform for interaction through choral music. “As an institution that promotes art in Zimbabwe we are committed to hosting this choral music festival that unites choirs from diverse fields and also develop choristers,” Jera-Chigwanda said. “The main thrust of the festival is for choristers to share as well as learn from each so as to improve their choral skills.”

According to Jera-Chigwanda, the increase in number of choirs this year forced them to group participants into two categories - high school choirs and church choirs.

“Singing is a wonderful release and opportunity to express one’s thoughts and feelings. The growth of the festival will encourage other choral groups to participate in this unlimited festival,” she said.

Jera-Chigwanda said although there would be adjudicators, the festival was not a competition, but a platform to learn through identifying shortcomings.

Waddilove High School’s 60-member choir is the reigning champion of the festival. The choral group competed against eight choirs last year and won $500 and a trophy.  The Apostolic Faith Mission AZUSA Revival Centre took second position and walked away with $300. Salvation Army Chitungwiza received $200 for occupying a third position.