HISTORIC HARMONY: Methodist High School Choir Clinches Victory at Maiden Angelle’s Voices Competition.

By The Rev. Onyemaechi Charles Uruakpa   | Owerri  | April 19, 2025

In a breathtaking fusion of faith and melody, Methodist High School, Ikenegbu Choir etched its name into history as it emerged victorious at the inaugural Angelle’s Voices Christian Choir Competition, held on April 19, 2025, at Wesley Methodist Church, Ikenegbu, Owerri.

Organized by the OC Nwana Foundation in partnership with the Methodist Church Nigeria Diocese of Owerri, the event brought together top Christian choirs across denominations in a powerful celebration of sacred music, youthful talent, and spiritual unity.

A Night of Divine Melodies

The competition reached a spiritual crescendo as Methodist High School Choir delivered an awe-inspiring, technically masterful performance that moved both judges and the congregation. They edged out strong contenders including St. Clement African Methodist Episcopal Church and Christ (Anglican) Church, Owerri, who finished second and third respectively.

“Their harmonies felt like Heaven touching Earth,” said one impressed guest.

A Tribute to Legacy and Hope

The evening featured a heartfelt tribute to Late Angelle Amara Nwana-Richard, the inspiration behind the competition. The Angelle’s Voices Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Mrs. Ijeoma Nwana K. E. and Dr. Mrs. Nene Nwana, gave a soul-stirring performance in the presence of Lady Prof. Mrs. Olu Nwana, the graceful 90-year-old matriarch of the Nwana family.

Participating Choirs

Nine choirs competed with unmatched enthusiasm:

  1. Lighthouse Startright High School
  2. St. Clement African Methodist Episcopal Church, Owerri
  3. Cornerstone Methodist Church
  4. All Saints Methodist Church, World Bank New Owerri
  5. Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Owerri
  6. Christ (Anglican) Church, Owerri
  7. Wesley Methodist Church, Ikenegbu
  8. St. Silas Methodist Pro-Cathedral, Orji
  9. Independent Choir

Spirit-Filled Adjudication

Though the panel of judges remained anonymous, their discernment in selecting the winners was widely praised as being “divinely guided.” Their expertise blended musical precision with spiritual depth, elevating the event to a sanctified celebration.

Dignitaries and Commendations

The event was blessed with the presence of notable guests including:

  • Rt. Rev. Geoffrey U. Kanu JP, Bishop of the Diocese (represented by The Rev. S. N. Agbo JP)
  • Hon. Barr. Chima Nwana, CEO, OC Nwana Foundation
  • Rt. Rev. S. O. Okeke, Bishop, Diocese of Ideato (Anglican Communion), and his wife
  • Dr. D. C. Iheonu, Chairman of the Day
  • Lady Prof. Mrs. Blessing Ijioma, former Provost, AIFCE
  • Sir Arc. Chibuike Chiji Collins, Lay President Emeritus, MCN Diocese of Okigwe
  • Sir Dr. Udeogu (King of Music)
  • Numerous clergy, educators, and music lovers

Each choir and director received cash prizes and commemorative souvenirs. The competition was described as a “launchpad for a new generation of Christian music ambassadors.”

Praise and Future Vision

Special accolades were given to The Rev. Sampson Nduka Agbo JP, Principal of Methodist High School, for his leadership. Also commended was Ezinne Deaconess Mercy U. Kanu (Mama Owerri), whose support inspired all participants.

One participant, Moses Prestige, summed up the sentiment:

"Thank you, OC Nwana Foundation, for showing us love. I enjoyed every part of this God-filled event. May your light shine forever."

Closing Note

As the curtains fell on this historic competition, The Rev. Onyemaechi Charles Uruakpa, a member of the planning committee, declared:

“This was a divine milestone. The spirit of Angelle now sings through these young voices.”

With annual plans already in motion, Angelle’s Voices promises to be a lasting platform for spiritual unity, musical brilliance, and the glorification of God through harmony.


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