Music composer and choral music specialist Chisomo Dan Kauma has released a musical project titled Voice of Freedom: Referendamu ya Mbiri to commemorate June 14 1993’s referendum.
During the referendum, Malawians were asked to choose between sustaining single party politics and democracy and they voted for pluralism.
Released yesterday, the project blends classical choral music, operatic influences and African indigenous musical traditions and narrates the political history of Malawi.
The project honours the courage and participation of ordinary Malawians, the leadership of political figures and the role played by churches and faith communities in advocating for change and shaping the future of the nation.
Speaking in an interview, Kauma said the project goes beyond entertainment and serves as a vehicle for civic education and national consciousness.
He said: “The album seeks to preserve, celebrate and reintroduce this important chapter of the nation’s journey through the transformative power of music, ensuring that future generations understand the significance of the referendum and the role it played in shaping modern Malawi.
“I hope to demonstrate that music can serve as both an artistic achievement and a powerful instrument of historical preservation. It is a tribute to freedom, democracy, cultural heritage and the enduring spirit of the Malawian people.”
The album draws heavily on his background in classical choral music, resulting in a strong presence of choral composition, vocal harmony and largescale ensemble performance.
Kauma added: “My intention was not to overemphasize the conventional SATB structure. Instead, I sought to achieve a careful balance between classical choral elements and other musical genres.
“While listeners may be drawn to the beauty of the choir, the orchestral textures and the fusion of genres, the true essence of the album lies in its message. Music has the unique ability to communicate history, inspire reflection and preserve memory.”
Musical analyst Wonderful Mkhutche described Kauma as one of the few musicians pushing the boundaries of Malawi’s musical landscape through his commitment to classical music.
He said: “Kauma’s music has stretched the limits of most people’s taste. Classical music is not popular in Malawi, but he has found a place for it among us.
“He needs to continue walking on this path. I believe he will soon attract the attention of the international audience if he does not give up too soon.”
In his song Chakufwa, Kauma talks about how one Chakufwa Chihana stood against one party system, got arrested and inspired change.
Itnpart it goes: Panali nthawi ya chete, pamene mantha anali ngati mpweya, anthu ambiri amkayang’ana pansi
Ndipo mawu amkabisala mmitima
Koma munthawi imeneyo
Munthu mmodzi anaima,
Osati ndi mfuti, osati ndi nkhondo
Koma ndi choonadi
Chakufwa …munthu mmodzi wambirimbiri
Chakufwa…mawu ake sanathe, munthu mmodzi mtima wambirimbiri
Chakufwa, choonadi sichinamugonjetse”
Kauma’s music journey began in 1996 and he has developed into a professional classical choral composer, conductor and music educator. Over the years, he has taught and directed choirs including Masintha Church choir, and founded the Lilongwe Community Choir which serves at national functions.
He has trained vocalists in bands and ensembles and authored music books and articles, including CCAP Hymn Conducting guidelines and Complete Practical Vocal Manual. He has also recorded over 500 Chichewa and Tumbuka hymns that serve as resources for congregational singing and worship.
