Community successfully host Easter Gospel music event
The community of Pusiju and Valapata successfully ended the Easter event with a Gospel Musical activity.
The event was organised by the Sirubai Voko Tribe Association (SVTA) with the support of the Moonlight Band of Valapata village.
A total of 15 groups participated in the one-day event at Pusiju community hall.
The purpose of the event was to celebrate the Easter event with a focus on developing the young generation in terms of gospel musical instruments.
The event was free of charge while the hosting organisation (SVTA) provided light refreshments for all participants including spectators (approximately 100).
The activity was led by famous local artists, songwriters, and musicians, Mr Jesse Lelokana of Valapata village.
The participants were given the opportunity to play the following instruments; bass guitar, lead guitar, and keyboard and sing their own composed songs that carry the message of the Easter event.
Mr Elsmond and his group performing during the event _ Photo by SVTA
Mrs Keith Tovakera, women’s leader of the Pusiju community applauds the organizing committee for initiating yet another successful musical activity for the youths and adults alike.
She further mentioned that for the first time, I have seen a few young couples come together and sing on stage which is very encouraging as it music unites us together.
In a brief interview with young Robert Lovi Lelokana, he mentioned that after seeing the Environmental music contest that was held in December 2024 at Pusiju, he committed to learn his favorite instrument (bass guitar).
Four months later, he proved himself by performing on stage with his uncle Jesse and cousin brothers.
Mr Ian Lelokana of Moonlight Band also expressed his gratitude to SVTA for organizing the event for the second time this year.
Being able to see more rural musicians expressing themselves on the stage in front of their parents, community leaders, and peers is so fulfilling.
In closing remarks, Mr Jesse Lelokana highlighted that “Sound brings life to music”, without sound there will be no music.
Mr Lubert and his son’s group during the event _ Photo by SVTA
The instruments are idols, they only produce music when a musician plays it. In most cases for rural musicians, where there is limited access to formal musical training, it is crucial to learn listening skills because this is the way we learn to play different instruments.
He further advises young musicians to discipline themselves in this art and learn to obey the community leaders as the way forward to becoming great musicians in the future.
The event’s chairman, Mr Ben Kuboto was equally impressed just like the rest of the general public that witnessed the event.
There was a living testimony of raw talented young youths in rural communities. The youngest musician who took part in the event was Mr Robert Lovi Lelokana (7 years old) who played bass guitar and the eldest participant was Chief Israel Paebara (58 years old) who played lead guitar.
This has also captured the interest of community leaders and it was highly recommended for similar events to be hosted again in the near future.
The Sirubai Voko Association continues to create new initiatives that are inclusive and participatory to different stakeholders at the community level.
The ultimate purpose of these events is to create a platform for youths to explore their talents and capability to bring positive change in the society.
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SVTA statement