Nagaland Musical Training Camp sponsored by NEZCC and organized by Withee Bible College (WBC), Darogajan concluded with a musical recital by trainers and trainees at WBC chapel hall, here Tuesday.
Speaking at the recital as chief guest, NEZCC deputy director D Vashum said music played a crucial role in both the social and spiritual life of a person.
Stating that music among Nagas was greatly influenced by the advent of American missionaries in the late 19th century, Vashum acknowledged the risk taken by missionaries who helped Nagas by translating gospel hymns into local languages. Further, he said it became an integral part of every Christian gathering and helped a great deal in the spreading of the gospel.
Asserting that singing could become a prayer, worship, thanks giving and praising ‘God’, he it was necessary that everyone learn how to sing, especially congregational hymns.
NEZCC deputy director also urged the gathering, which comprised mostly of students, to incorporate traditional music with contemporary thereby ensuring the survival of ‘our’ cultural identity.
Earlier, Yekatoli Chishi moderated the recital while WBC academic dean Ekonthung Lotha said the invocation.
Trainers performed an instrumental at the opening ceremony followed by an introduction by WBC founder and president Rev. Dr. Vikheshe Chishi.
Songs in various formats like solo, duet and groups were presented by the trainees along with their trainers.
Vote of thanks was proposed by Mughabeli Chishi and benediction by Konyak Baptist Church Dimapur member Rev. Tonlong Konyak.