Musical group tasks government, corporate organisations on development of choral music

As the Chorale De La Magnifique (CDM) marked its 30th anniversary of vintage choral music in Abuja, stakeholders have called on the government to create an enabling environment for the growth of choral music in Nigeria.

The anniversary with a theme, ‘Strengthening Our Bonds’ took its audience through the euphoria of classic music and the coziness of the Christmas fever. There was also an award for outstanding personalities who have shown commitment to the growth of the choral group.

Other side attractions include, Karaoke Christmas Carols – an electrifying rendition of ‘White Christmas’ by Frank Okoye and goodwill messages from the seated audience.

Grand Coordinator and Music Director of CDM, Dr. Ikechukwu Eseka, in excitement, stated that 30 years was a significant milestone filled with many stories and victories.

According to him, it took a refining process of learning under musical prodigies and legends to achieve such longevity in music.

He called on the government to create an enabling environment for choral music to thrive and the need for cooperate organization’s investment.

“Obviously, 30 years is a significant milestone. It is filled with stories and many victories. We succeeded where we were not expected to succeed.

“People want to achieve success instantly forgetting that they have to go through the ropes. I went through the ropes and tutelage of Prof. Laz Ekwueme, Elder Steve Rhodes, Ayo Bankole, Sir Emeka Nwokedi, David Aina and a lot of prodigies in music. Today’s excellence is the result of these processes.”

Adding: “Funds is a huge challenge. Many of our members are not so buoyant, some are still students, and funds are needed to put up an excellent show. Times are hard for both the government and corporate organizations but they can still help to fund deep musicals like this.

“Government through creating an enabling environment that will attract investors to come to invest in choral music will be a boost”, he said.

The Co-founder of CDM and Head of Faculty, MTN Project Fame Reality Show, Mr. Benneth Ogbetwi, disclosed that it was challenging being one of the pioneers of choral groups in Nigeria. He admitted that “30 years is huge; the journey so far has been challenging because there were not too many choral groups then. We broke out with the approval of Prof Laz and Elder Steve. Dr. Eseka has done great as the Director. 30 years is a lot of work. The country must have a space that entertains choral music, a kind of music that expresses the cultural display of where we came from.”

Also, an awardee, Anthony Chinedu Morris, expressed joy for being an award recipient. He said: “Today’s 30th anniversary brings all of us together to celebrate life and success. It is also a reminder that hard work pays off. I am shocked to receive this award. It shows the little good you do is noticed and appreciated.”

Commending the performance, Ige Ishola, a member of the audience described the show as a mild lullaby.

“This is a mild lullaby; I am going home to have a good rest. I hope for more mild music performances like this. This performance today is a clear picture of the music in heaven”, he said.