Choristers urge Nigerians to seek virtuous music

Choristers at the Ikeja Deanery Choir (IDC), comprising the Parish choirs of 10 Catholic Churches in Lagos, have described music as a necessity for life.

The choristers who gave the description in a statement signed by Ikeja Music Director and Choirmaster, Mr. Tony Eluno, to announce their forthcoming music concert Judas Maccebeus by G. F Handel, said Nigeria needs to lay emphasis on musical lyrics that encourage virtues and morals, rather than debasing music.

The musical concert, which is in honour of late Monsignor Michael Omisesan, is aimed at bring to the fore the importance of sitting quietly and meditating in today’s interactive, amplified, high-tech world which seems to instinctively avoid contemplation.

The musical concert, which is billed to hold on June 12 by 2pm at St Leo’s Catholic Church Hall, Ikeja Lagos, is to be chaired by Chief Charles Anyiam-Osigwe and Ikeja Choir Deanery Chaplain, Rev. Fr. Michael Umoh among other eminent personalities.

According to the statement, the Special Guest of Honour will be,Vicar General, Ikeja Deanery, Rt. Rev. John Aniagwu.
Shedding more insights on the concert, Eluno disclosed that Handel’s oratorio is in three parts and described the changing moods of the people as the fortunes of the Jews.

“Part 1 commences with the people mourning the death of Mattathias, their leader. However his son Simon tries to restore confidence by reminding them that they are the people chosen by the great I AM. Part II commences on a victorious theme – Fallen is the foe. The people are full of joy for their country – Hall, Judea, happy land, but Judas is conscious that it is easy for them to claim victory all for themselves-

How vain is man who boast in fight, Eluno explained.
Eluno continued: “Part III commences with the cries of victory-See, the conquering hero comes and a hymn of praise to God. Just as Judas’ fortunes were at their lowest point, a messenger announces that Rome, ever willing to discomfort the Seleucid empire, are willing to form an alliance with Judas-Peace to my countrymen, peace and liberty. The people sing praise to God-To our great God be all honour given, and are confident that peace at last will come to their country – O lovely peace. The oratorio ends with the triumphant chorus Hallelujah, Amen.”