In September of 1999 at the suggstion of
the late Chief James Stevens (Simoogit Kamsiwaa), approximately thirty
men formed
a
new choir group. The group, called Amihl Saxwhl Lisims Men's Choir,
performs Nisga'a songs, Christmas songs, as well as, classical
lullaby's.
The group was formed to help the
men of Gingolx re-build their self esteem. Enabling them to learn
to sing harmoniously and perform benevolently in public.
The
start of this new choir brought magnificent reviews from far and
wide. The powerful voices struck crowds in amazement. Their voices
were harmonious and it brought good spirits to those listening.
Since
the birth of this group, the choir has performed in numerous events in
the community. They have sung for special events such as:
- Fundraisers for the Kincolith
Christ Church
- Funerals, to show their respect to the family
- Wedding feasts, to share in the celebration
Their journeys have taken them to perform in other communities such
as; Metlakatla, Terrace, Greenville, Prince Rupert, the Hazeltons and
Kitsumkalum.
In the year 2000, the men's
choir assisted the Kincolith Christ Church renovation fund in a big
way. The group planned an event that all would remember.
The event was
the Hobiyee, Nisga'a New Year. It was the first Nisga'a
New Year celebration to ever be celebrated in Gingolx, it was electrifying.
The Master of Ceremonies for the celebration was Chief Chester Moore
(Simoogit Hlayim Wil). He led the cultural singers and dancers in an
enlightening
way. Well over $15,000 was raised and turned over to the Kincolith
Christ Church.
In 2001, an opportunity arose for the choir to record a CD. Sadly,
due to a lack of funds, the group could not travel to Terrace to make
the
recording. However, with the new Gingolx Media Center,
the group will have the opportunity to record their wonderful voices
in the sanctity of the Kincolith Christ Church.
Singing practices are held on Tuesday and Saturday at 7:00 pm. The place
to meet is usually announced on the CB radio. A formal dress code, utilizing
traditional Nisga'a colors, has
been adopted by the group whenever they perform.
Black slacks and white shirts are used and the choir members all
have vests that have their own house crests on them.
The choir group often receives invitations to perform in homes, especially
from the elders. People say their songs and voices are soothing,
uplifting and harmonious. The audience as well as the performers
often come away with a feeling of
being uplifted, cleansed or just happy.
The Amihl Sawhl Lisims Men's Choir has a committee which keeps them
organized. This committee
is
also
available for the choir members to come to whenever they find themselves
in a situation where they need assistance. The choir has committed itself
to looking after each other and their loved ones.
Chairperson, Alvin Nelson.
Conductor/Director, Chester Moore.
Manager, Max Lincoln.
Assistant Manager, Ken Moore.
Treasurer, Raymond Moore.
Recording Secretary, George Nelson Jr.
To reach this organization the contact person is
Max Lincoln @ (250) 326-4249.
General Delivery, Kincolith B.C. V0V 1B0.
