Franciscan choir to release album

The Franciscan Choir, the sacred musical group that leads the singing during the 11’Oclock mass at Christ the King Church, Kampala, is planning to release an album of its popular hymns. 

The choir also plans to buy a new organ, to boost its performance.

 This has been revealed by the choir’s patron, Deo Kasozi Walukaali, during a telephone interview with the New Vision.

 “We have been out of action for three years because of Covid-19. Our fans are hankering for our music. They requested us to record our hymns so that they can listen and meditate on the message at the convenience of their homes. We just have some financial bottlenecks, but we shall soon prevail over them.”

The President of Franciscan Choir, Ronald Kasozi delivering his thanksgiving message

 Kasozi said the choir needs about sh15m for the organ and recording project. Half of this has already been donated by the choir’s fans, in cash and pledges.

 Meanwhile, the Franciscan choristers are now back in action. They made their first post-Covid appearance during an exciting concert that they staged at Christ the King Church, recently.

 The Franciscans, who are generally acknowledged for their energy and zeal, were as dynamic and jovial as ever. 

The parish priest of Christ the King Church, Msgr. Gerald Kalumba delivers his remarks.

Their extensive repertoire comprised sacred melodies of the White Fathers and local composers such as Fr. Joseph Namukangula, Fr. James Kabuye and Msgr. Expedito Magembe. 

 They also sang Negro Spirituals and pieces from big works by renowned classical music composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel.

 The Franciscans were at their best as they crooned hymns such as Kristu ge Magoba Gennoonya (Msgr. Magembe), Yezu Leero Asinze (White Fathers), Worthy is the Lamb, I know that my Redeemer Liveth and the popular Alleluia Chorus (from Handel’s Messiah).

 The concert was greatly boosted by the beautiful performance of the organist, Henry Lubega, and talented members of Xavieliee band, who included jazz drummer Joshua Nsubuga, rhythm guitarist Arthur Lubega and alto saxophonist Jovan Lutaaya.

 The Chairman of the choir, Ronald Kasozi thanked the choir's fans for standing with them during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic.

 The concert was also graced by the church’s affiliate priests, including the parish-priest, Msgr. Gerald Kalumba, Fr. Mathias Nteza (curate), Fr. Remegius Sserugga (curate). The chairperson of Christ the King Choir’s Association, Alex Arinaitwe, also graced the concert.