Classical Music Concerts in Abuja: An Exclusive Interview with Zitu Benafa, Founder of Green Chamber Choir"
Dr. Yomi Bosede of African Art Times had an exclusive interview with Zitu Benafa, founder of the Green Chamber Choir, to discuss the group's background, inspirations, and contributions to the classical music scene in Abuja, Nigeria.
What inspired the formation of the Green Chamber Choir, and can you share your group's background, including your musical influences, genre, and style?
Zitu Benafa: "In 2009 when the Green Chamber Choir, then Green Chamber Chorale was founded, there was only one active choral group in Warri. Her whose focus was mainly on Handel's music. I thought it was necessary for more vocal ensembles to spring up for the proliferation of classical music. The GCC was founded with the intention of growing singers for the entertainment and education of the public through concerts and other performances. Our repertoire includes hymns, folk songs, contemporary classics and original classical music.
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What sets your group apart from others in the Abuja choral music scene, and how do you maintain your unique sound?
Zitu Benafa: "We are a chamber group which means our membership is not as big as you'd find with other groups. Membership is only open when there's a need. Most choral groups in Abuja have similar repertoire, however, in the GCC, we perform lots of Baroque music."
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How do you manage to produce high-quality concerts, considering the challenges of a dwindling economy, and what strategies do you employ to overcome these challenges?
Zitu Benafa: "Over the years, we strive to keep our concerts at very high levels in both organisation and performance. We look for possible collaborations and professional, yet affordable services. We have an active concert committee that ensures our concerts run smoothly."
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What role does teamwork play in your group's success, and how do you ensure that everyone involved, from crew to stage management, instrumentalists, and singers, brings their A-game?
Zitu Benafa: "The GCC is a pure team oriented system. We have an administrative team, logistics team and music team. Together, these teams ensure that we achieve our set goals."
How do you discover and recruit talented musicians to join your group, and what qualities do you look for in potential members?
Zitu Benafa: "
We advertise for members via our social media channels. Firstly, we are interested in committed, dedicated and dutiful individuals who have the interest in making music with an ensemble. They should be adults as well."
Have you received any support from the government, community, or individuals, and how has this support impacted your group's success?
Zitu Benafa: "Yes. Each year, we get support from individuals and a few corporate entities and these funds help us reach our goals especially during concert season."
What drives your passion for classical music, and why do you believe it's essential to share this genre with the Abuja community?
Zitu Benafa: "We contribute to humanity with what we have. Music communities such as choirs and chorales are important aspects of Nation building. It is important to create such a great space for musicians and enthusiasts to relax and enjoy the beauty that classical music brings to humanity. Art music is a unique, classy and educative culture that should be promoted."
Can you share any notable challenges you've faced while organizing concerts, and how you overcame them?
Zitu Benafa: "
We are yet to fully overcome the challenges of funding. This remains the number one on the list. We also have the challenge of no proper concert auditoriums or halls. We have resorted to using spaces not originally meant for music performances and this affects the overall output obtainable. Classical music is highly cost intensive. We hope that the government and top corporate bodies would unlock a massive support for this brand."
What advice would you give to aspiring choral groups or musicians looking to organize similar concerts, and what lessons have you learned throughout your journey?
Zitu Benafa: "At the moment, the brand is passion-driven. To succeed, you must have the passion and be committed to it. You should also have a good income to manage an ensemble until you get proper funding. Lastly, music is time. Give it enough time and it would speak fluently."
Any final word to the Nigerian choral music industry as a whole, and how do you think choral music can attract more investors and support from the general public or the government?
Zitu Benafa: "Let us embrace proper collaborations as you find in other entertainment industries."
Dr. Yomi Bosede: "Thank you, Zitu, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. Your passion for classical music and commitment to promoting it in Nigeria are truly inspiring."
This conversation with Zitu Benafa, founder of the Green Chamber Choir, has provided valuable insights into the world of classical music in Abuja, Nigeria. As the Green Chamber Choir continues to thrive, their contributions to the classical music scene will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the Nigerian music landscape.
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