Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
BULAWAYO came alive this past weekend as the Econet iJoyAftaJoy Matabeleland Choral Music Competition drew a packed house, with some of the region’s finest choirs battling it out for coveted spots in the national finals set for Harare.
The colourful showcase, held before an enthusiastic crowd, blended fierce competition with entertainment, as choirs delivered stirring gospel harmonies and polished stage performances in a bid to secure progression to the next stage, where cash prizes and top honours await.
Adding sparkle to the event were captivating performances from a celebrated cultural ensemble Iyasa and gospel group Sound of Joy Chorale, whose high-energy acts kept the audience on its feet throughout the day.
In the church choirs category, TACC Church Choir, BICC Mahatshula, Jubilee Academy Choir, Embers of Praise, Udonsi Lwabapostoli, Zion Choristers, BICC Mpopoma Church Choir, Echoes of Joy (Mpopoma MCZ) and Habakkuk Apostolic Faith Mission (HAFM) took to the stage.
TACC Church Choir, BICC Mahatshula, Jubilee Academy Choir, Embers of Praise, Zion Choristers and BICC Mpopoma Church Choir emerged victorious to book their places in the Harare finals.
The community choirs’ category was equally competitive, featuring Ubuntu Voices Ensemble, ZPCS Beitbridge, Sweet Melodies Chorale, ZPCS Lupane, Bulawayo Choristers, ZPCS Voice of Praise Choral Group, ZPCS Zihlangane Arts Group, Abanqobi Bezitha, ZPCS Bulawayo Prison Choral Group and ZPCS Mlondolozi.
Choirs that advanced were Ubuntu Voices Ensemble, ZPCS Beitbridge, Sweet Melodies Chorale, ZPCS Lupane, Bulawayo Choristers, ZPCS Voice of Praise Choral Group and Abanqobi Bezitha.
Bulawayo Choristers choir manager Sithatshisiwe Vuma said the group’s hard work and preparation had paid dividends.
“The competition was tough, but because we had prepared well, we managed to pull through.
“This platform pushes us to improve every time. Competing against strong choirs sharpens our discipline, vocal strength and stage presentation. We are going to Harare more focused and determined,” she said.
BICC Mpopoma Church Choir conductor Mduduzi Mavivi said the contest highlighted areas they need to improve ahead of the finals.
“We did our best, but we also identified areas where we can do better. We’re already refining those aspects as we prepare for Harare,” Mavivi said.
He added that their journey is inspired by faith and a desire to grow their ministry through music.
“We believe God rewards those who serve Him faithfully. We want to grow into a bigger choir and use music to win souls,” said Mavivi.
Econet Wireless Zimbabwe said the groups that came out tops at the competition in Bulawayo will be expected to travel to Harare to compete for cash prizes and national bragging rights on February 28.
The iJoyAftaJoy competition, launched last year, has become a vital launchpad for both emerging and established choirs, promoting musical excellence while uniting communities through gospel and choral music.
