By Albert Munyanyi

MASVINGO – The Ancient City of Masvingo is abuzz with excitement as the much-anticipated St. Cecilia Celebrations  is set to take place on November 25^th, 2023. Choirs from across Zimbabwe, and those composed of Catholics based in South Africa are preparing to converge in a display of musical talents and harmonious competition.

A total of 44 choirs will vie for top honors, each bringing their unique blend of vocal prowess and musical arrangements to the stage. The anticipation for this event is heavily felt among choristers with the Inner City Deanery being the first ones on the row, Chirumhanzu securing the middle ballot position, and Chivi poised to close the curtains on this musical extravaganza.

The competition song of the festival will be the melodious composition titled, “Makafanira kurumbidzwa,” written snd produced by the late Georgina Chipapata of Gweru Diocese. Her legacy will be honoured as her soul rests in peace.

After a three-year break caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the St. Cecilia Celebration is destined to deliver an unforgettable showcase musical talent as Catholic choirs battle it out at Gokomere Mission. The venue, popularly known as “Gato raMuzondo,” will reverberate the thunderous sounds of sweet voices creating an electrifying atmosphere for all in attendence.

The last edition of the festival was held in Hwange in 2019, where South West Deanery, Harare, emerged as the victors. Will they successfully defend their title against the fierce competition awaiting them this year? This is yet to be proved as time ticks away.

As the host diocese, Masvingo aims to capitalize on home advantage, with ten choirs representing the Diocese and hoping to secure an early present for their newly appointed Bishop, Sekuru Mupandasekwa, who will be installed as the Bishop of Masvingo in two weeks time.

The competition promises to be intense, as choirs from various Dioceses set their sights on claiming the coveted trophy. The St. Cecilia Celebration has experienced remarkable growth over the years, cementing its status as a premier event in the Catholic calendar in Zimbabwe

Amidst the anticipation and excitement, the Catholic Church in Zimbabwe mourns the loss of Cleopas Mukucha, a distinguished composer from Chinhoyi Diocese. His contributions to the musical landscape will be remembered as he was interred on Wednesday, November 22^nd, 2023.

As the countdown to the St. Cecilia Celebrations begins, the stage is set for a captivating showcase of talent, camaraderie, and the celebration of music, all in honor of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of musicians.