Livingstonia Synod Lilongwe CCAP choir launches second album
Lilongwe Church Choir of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Synod of Livingstonia has launched its second album titled Ndirute Kufupi kwa Chiuta.
The album contains 32 tracks recorded at the choir’s Timchindike Studio and features both a cappella and instrumental compositions.
In an interview after the launch on Saturday, the choir’s chairperson Patrick Chirwa said the album is a continuation of their work to promote and preserve original compositions of church songs.
He said: “Our choir started in 2013 and its objectives include to sing and lead in singing, congregational singing, and livening up the congregational singing.
“It has been our desire to actually bring that work to fruition through recording and this year, we have reached another monumental milestone with the second album.”
Chirwa said the choir teaches members singing according to notes written by composers.
Chirwa said although some songs have been accompanied by instruments, the choir has maintained their original notes.
“The notes of the original song have remained. So the songs you are hearing today are the songs which were sang in that original composition,” he said.
Chirwa said the original compositions allows worshippers to appreciate the emotions and message behind the music.
“We expect that people are going to not just buy the CD or the album and leave it aside, but actually to utilise it. Play it for themselves, their family, share it with others, so that we all benefit from the message in that music,” he said.
The guest of honour former corporate executive Jimmy Lipunga encouraged the church and choirs to strengthen the music ministry, saying churches have historically played a role in nurturing musical talent.
“Historically, church was a homestead for music. Even most musicians, if you profile a lot of popular musicians, they will tell you, ‘I learnt piano, I was singing in a choir.’ It’s a common thread,” he said.
Lipunga said the church should introduce and support various activities that promote music and choral groups.
“Music is a ministry on its own. The Bible tells us about instances where melodies and songs have played a role in bringing about miracles and strengthening people’s faith,” he said.
Lipunga added that the impact of gospel music should not only be measured by commercial success, but by its ability to encourage people and strengthen their faith.
“If you’re singing, lives are being encouraged. If you’re singing, souls are being won over. That’s really what matters,” he said.
The choir released its debut album Dada Ndine Mwana Winu.
