By Ibrahim S. Bangura
On Friday, December 6, 2024,
Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts (BAMPA), in collaboration with Saint Augustine’s Church and Just France, hosted a heartwarming event, “Birth of a Savior” to celebrate Christmas. Held at Saint Augustine’s Church at Hill Station, Freetown, the evening brought the community together to celebrate the season of joy, reflection, and unity through a beautiful array of Christmas music.
The event featured vibrant performances highlighting Sierra Leone’s remarkable musical talents. Among the key performances was the Ballanta Groovy Colors Band, known for their energetic performances that seamlessly blend traditional and contemporary sounds. Their lively and novel arrangements in collaboration with Dr. Modupe Taylor-Pearce set the tone for a night of rhythm and excitement. There was a touch of Sierra Leonean rhythms and lyrics in these unique arrangements. The soloists from the Sierra Leone Talented Gospel Singers also graced the stage, blending seamlessly with the Sierra Singers, filling the church with their powerful and soulful voices, embodying the Christmas spirit. The Ballanta Brass Band enriched the evening further with their stirring brass arrangements, adding festive depth and resonance to the event.
The program was divided into two segments, each brimming with heartwarming music celebrating Christmas season. The serene, festive atmosphere of the newly constructed church served as the perfect backdrop for a thoughtfully curated selection of Christmas classics, uplifting gospel music, and captivating brass pieces. Each performance conveyed a unique message, with gospel songs evoking the season’s deep spiritual significance and reminding the audience of the enduring themes of hope, peace, and goodwill.
The first half of the event showed performances from a range of local musicians. It was the contributions of prominent contemporary and gospel artists that particularly resonated with the audience.
Dr. Williette James, a celebrated figure in gospel music, performed “Christians Awake,” a stirring anthem that uplifted the spirits of all in attendance. Another highlight was Iman Beoku-Betts’ rendition of “We Three Kings,” which beautifully captured both the solemnity and joy of the Christmas story. These performances with others showcased the incredible diversity of Sierra Leone’s musical talent and celebrated the country’s rich cultural heritage.
The collaboration between the Ballanta Academy of Music, Saint Augustine’s Church, and Just France resulted in a joyful and memorable evening that brought together people from all walks of life. Through the power of music, the event celebrated not just Christmas but also the importance of cultural exchange and the role of the arts in uniting communities. Each musical group contributed their unique sound, creating a harmonious blend that resonated deeply with the audience.
In response to the performances, attendees expressed gratitude to the organizers and called for more events like this. Many noted that the program was not just for worship, entertainment, or education, but also for fostering cultural exchange. “This is exactly what we need. It will bring unity among us and showcase our talents,” said Bankey Large, one of the attendees.
The success of “Birth of a Savior” is a testament to the Ballanta Academy of Music’s ongoing commitment to promoting the arts in Sierra Leone. The event also highlighted the significance of partnerships in fostering cultural and musical exchange. Through this collaboration, the community experienced an evening of entertainment and also a profound reminder of the values of unity, celebration, and love that Christmas embodies.
The event, “Birth of a Savior”, was more than just a concert—it was a celebration of Sierra Leone’s musical heritage, a demonstration of community spirit, and a reminder of the deeper, spiritual meaning of Christmas. The event’s success proved the power of music to bring people together in joy and harmony, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. What an uplifting way to herald the Christmas season!