APART from lending its voice to the global call for an end to terrorism and all forms of violence through musical renditions, the edition also served to celebrate the host city, Abuja with a unity song. The choice song was the outcome of a musical contest by singers and composers from across the country.The need for a unity song for the nation's capital city, the organisers noted, was in consideration of the security challenges that have confronted the nation in recent times. For AMEMUSO group, the rather embarrassing situation has become of great concern, not only to Nigeria but also, the global community.And when the contest began, only the nine shortlisted titles including Abuja; Abuja Land of Unity; Abuja Apex City; Unity; Abuja Unity Song; Abuja Centre of Unity; Abuja Beautiful Abuja; Abuja Sweet City as well as Abuja You Are So Fine, were rendered by the members of AMEMUSO choir.Rather than play a key role in opera performance as usual, the founder of AMEMUSO and wife of former German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs Cecilia Toledo De Schmillen, formed part of the jury. Others were Onyeka Onwuenu and Omo Bello of Paris Conservatoire.When results were declared, the aptly titled Abuja Unity Song, composed by a member of AMEMUSO, emerged the best song while Abuja You Are So fine and Abuja Land of Unity, came 2nd and 3rd respectively.Apart from the N500,000 cash award from Zenith Bank to the winning composer, the song was adopted as FCT Song by the Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed. He stated that Abuja is indeed, a beautiful city waiting to be discovered and a centre, not only of unity but also of transformation.Bala told the choir that he was under instruction to give all necessary support towards actualising the group's vision, and stressed that government was making effort towards ensuring restoration of peace and order in the country. He expressed delight at the winning song.'I am happy about the song that won the competition and it would become a song for the city', he stated.Earlier, chairman, Board of Trustees of AMEMUSO, Gen. Theophilous Y. Danjuma (rtd), commended the courage of Nigerians, who defied security threats to attend the evening. He expressed concern that night life was gradually eluding FCT due to the prevailing security situation.'I was afraid I would meet an empty hall due to recent developments. People also perceived that there is no social life in the city any longer. I thank you all for mustering courage to be here.'The journey towards having a unity song for FCT began in June with a request from Nigerian singers and composers to submit their entries.According to the founder of AMEMUSO, Mrs. Toledo de Schmillen, the songs were further rearranged by a Chilean componist, Rodrigo Herrera for greater effect.Also, part of the evening was a Chamber Orchestra from Germany directed by Mr. Michael Vollhard as well as the inspiring performance by the children's arm of AMEMUSO known as AMEMUSITO.Once more, the group used the occasion to source fund for its ongoing project - the all-inclusive Africa Performing Arts Centre (APAC). On completion, there would be a performing theatre, a large capacity auditorium, musical school for children as well as other facilities that would enhance development of creativity in children and youths.The evening was not complete without the exciting performances of Cecilia and Omo Bello as they entertained guests in classical opera tunes.Since AMEMUSO made its maiden annual musical concert few years back, Transcorp Hilton Hotel has remained a pillar of support to the group. The Public Relations Manger of the hotel, Mr. Shola Adeyemo, who spoke on what has sustained their support, said it was their belief in the mission of AMEMUSO.His words: 'We will continue to support AMEMUSO because we are part of its vision. Also, music to us is part of our story of travels. We believe that music and travels are about bringing people together. Again, we shared in the dreams of the founder of AMEMUSO for Nigeria'.In preparation for the festive season, Adeyemo said the hotel is wearing a new look, especially with the lighting of Christmas tree and other internal decorations.Adding: 'Like we have done over the years, we have a package that began with the lighting of Christmas tree on December 1. Then, we have special Christmas rate from December 23. This is inclusive of all our services and lots of activities for children. It is going to be another exciting moment for guests of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja'.
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