SA composer unveils groundbreaking Holy Trinity Oratorio premiering this August

Sharon Park – Charles Lesia (64) is a seasoned music composer whose passion for creating began in his youth. He wrote his first song for his school quartet in 1979, marking the start of a lifelong dedication to music.

In the 1980s, his composition Bosohana gained nationwide recognition and became a beloved song across South Africa. He also showcased his versatility as a member of the Afro-fusion band Melodi, which released the song He (God) is Worthy on its 1994 album Melodi.

“I come from a musical family, and throughout my school years I sang in choirs, so it was natural for me to become a composer. Back then, choral music was shared freely – songs were written, copied, and sung by different choirs without much thought about rights or protection,” he recalled.

Lesia’s latest work, The Holy Trinity Oratorio, will premiere at the Springs Civic Centre on August 24. He describes it as a Holy Spirit-inspired piece that he never initially intended to write. The idea was sparked when Phuthuma Tsuari approached him while singing the final lines of the hymn God in Three Persons.

Tsuari said, “You will know what to do with this, but I believe a song needs to be written about The Trinity.”

“I didn’t respond immediately, but soon after, I began waking up at 03:00 hearing sounds of musical instruments. In a state between sleep and waking, I saw a book titled The Holy Trinity Oratorio. That’s when the music began flowing,” said Lesia.

The chorus was completed between April 17 and 30, 2021, followed by months of orchestration whenever inspiration struck.

“I feel privileged and blessed to have written this work. It is a gift from God that I will cherish all my life,” he said.

Lesia believes the oratorio is a significant contribution to South Africa’s rich choral tradition.

“This is an opportunity for our country to cement its status as a hub of choral music. Many of our artists have made an international impact, and this work follows in their footsteps. I am humbled to write something of this magnitude.”

The composition explores the nature of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, tracing their impact on creation and humanity.

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“The work seeks to illustrate the oneness and harmony of the Trinity and to help us imagine heaven, even within our human limitations,” he explained.

Though Lesia faced challenges – such as missing church funerals where he usually serves as organist – he said the support of his church community carried him through. A unique aspect of the oratorio is its diversity.

“It blends different worship styles, uses both conventional and traditional instruments, and incorporates multiple languages. This variety could inspire composers to go beyond convention in future works,” he said.

The piece is conducted by Dr Ludumo Magangane, with internationally acclaimed conductor Michael Dingaan Ka Mnguni also involved.

Performers include Cenestra Male Choir and Cantabile Singers, alongside choristers from across Ekurhuleni. According to Lesia, audiences who have heard previews during church visits have responded with deep emotion.

“Some were moved to tears, others stood with raised hands in appreciation and surrender to the Holy Spirit,” he shared.

To young composers, Lesia offered this advice: “Stay true to your calling. God sees your efforts and will reward you. Remain humble, never let pride take over, and always write from the heart.”

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