From Tim Hughes’ 1999 worship song to the timeless German hymn “Stille, mein Wille; dein Jesus hilft siegen,” associated with “Be Still, My Soul,” and the much-loved “The Lord Is My Shepherd,” Esther Dike brings traditional and contemporary hymns to a new generation of listeners.
The Nigerian gospel singer reinterprets these sacred compositions through her Evening of Hymns, drawing on their enduring messages of humility, sacrifice, faith and devotion. Her performances reflect both her spiritual conviction and her artistry, bringing renewed expression to familiar songs of worship.Released on 25 September 2022 at St Thomas More Catholic Chaplaincy, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria. In this choral performance, Esther Dike draws inspiration from Tim Hughes’ original composition, but deviates from the contemporary composition and its style to dictate its own distinct delivery. She leads the choir in an arrangement that enlivens vocal harmony, recreating a sonic world that puts at the fore the choral group and every listener. The harmonies smeared on the melody the depth of its sonic chest, making individual voices literally shine through while contributing to a cohesive musical whole. The appeal finds the reimagined composition through this means.
The piano’s gentle touches being weaved together with sustained chords, beautifully cause lingering harmonies, yet take to the sonic floor, laying the foundation for the choral piece at the opening, which is “Here I am to Worship.” A striking violin sound accompanies the chords on its sonic voyage, taking totally aback the souls of the listeners with the second hymn, “Be Still my Soul” which was later translated to English and noted that there is a joyful end to whatever any human passes through.
“O God beyond all praising” is a hymn that takes another turn. It takes through the route of acknowledging man’s lack of ownership in this life, one’s homeland, also reminding all humans of an eternal home which has been prepared by Father. The choir’s Legetto delivery, with the accompaniment of the concert bass drum, snare, and cymbals make the listeners more energetic eleven while the message is still thoughtful.
Esther continues with more clear and controlled-range vocals. Her “The Lord is my Shepherd” rendition reflects how she is able to blend together, and also balance the different parts like the Alto, tenor, bass, among others. The hymns, although not arranged by Esther, were followed accordingly through her lead of the ensemble. Tempo is essential in music and it is noticeable that while the pace is solemn and gentle, at some intervals in each hymn, there is intensity which raises the pitches and also deepens the depth of the listeners’ feel.
“How Great Thou Art,” another hymn of worship during this evening celebrates the majesty of God. This reflective composition unfurls the wonders of creation and that greatness of His power. The weaving together of the soprano, alto, tenor and bass parts adorned the arrangement, while the sustained notes add to the tempered sonic waves. “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” is another hymn that shows gratitude and at the same time recognises the frail nature of man without the Creator. Esther again keeps the plea for divine guidance with her ensemble, as the belief of human’s wavering faith is acknowledged, even despite the abundance of God’s blessings.
While “It Is Well With my Soul” brings the worship session to a close, Esther’s Evening of Hymns leaves listeners with a sense of peace and renewed faith. Her leadership and the memorable harmonies, put forward by the choir while singing these hymns, erupted a new life. This also gives this younger generation in depth messages beyond those sounds, and compositions. Also, the performances send down the minds of every listener a gentle reminder that faith, hope, strength, and trust in the Almighty remain relevant, no matter the generation.
