By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Dec 21: St. Cecilia Choir has won Jingle All The Way, a Christmas carol-singing competition organised by Big FM and JBL at Anton Hall, Laitumkhrah.
According to a statement here, the choir, held on December 20-21, captivated judges and audiences with their innovative rendition of Christmas carols, blending western and indigenous styles.
Their seven-minute medley of Go Tell It On The Mountain, Little Drummer Boy, and Ha Jingkynjah Ka Miet seamlessly combined western musical instruments with traditional ones like Ka Duitara and Ka Bom. The performance earned a standing ovation from the audience, who demanded an encore, prompting the choir to delight the crowd further with more traditional carols.
It may be mentioned that St. Cecilia Choir, based in the Cathedral Parish, Laitumkhrah, is the oldest choir in the Archdiocese of Shillong. Their victory earned them a first prize of Rs 50,000.
Meanwhile, local group The Triad claimed second place with Rs 30,000, while the energetic rap crew Leo Boys secured third place, taking home Rs 20,000.
The event’s highlight was the vibrant spirit of Christmas, reflected in the diverse performances and festive atmosphere.
As part of the festivities, a karaoke competition was also held, with local artists Sandra Nonglait, Malcolm Nongsiej and Daphilakhamti Pyngrope winning the first, second, and third prizes of Rs 10,000, Rs 5,000, and Rs 3,000, respectively.
The event concluded with a performance by Rudy Wallang & The Family Band, who kept the audience on their feet with original compositions, Christmas classics and timeless blues and rock hits.