Zim: Waddilove High wins choral competition

Now it’s in its third edition, the festival attracted choirs from nine high schools and 10 churches. The high school and church choirs battled it out separately  in two categories. Waddilove School won $500 while Zengeza 1 and Zengeza 2 won $350 and $250 respectively.

The St Peter’s United Methodist Church youth choir from Chitungwiza came first in the church choir’s category. The choir finished top with 89 points and won $500. Apostolic Faith Mission Bethel Assembly were in second and received $350. Apostolic Faith Mission Azusa Assembly took third and were given the $250 cash prize.

“I am overwhelmed that we defended our title,” Waddilove choir director Tozivei Mutowembwa said. “We’ve worked hard despite having examinations at school. We managed to strike a balance and we’ve secured the trophy for the second time. We were precise in terms of notation and interpretation and that’s what did the magic for us in addition to the mature voices in the choir.”

ZCM executive director Rachael Jera-Chigwanda said this year’s event had grown in size compared to previous editions.

“We are happy with the positive response to the choral music festival, with a continuous increase in numbers of competitors,” she said. “Choral music is now the main medium for transmitting messages that uplift and enlighten the soul, while giving better placements for psychomotor abilities, immune boosting, wellness and entrepreneurial activities.”

The event also honoured the composers whose songs were performed at the festival.