State govt assures continued support to budding artistes

SHILLONG, March 31: The Meghalaya government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the state’s budding musical artistes.
As part of this initiative, a classical piano recital workshop and master class, ‘Night Vision’, was conducted for music teachers, instructors and students at the Black Box Theatre, Lariti Mawkasiang.
The workshop, organised by the Arts and Culture department in collaboration with MTB SkillForge Mumbai, featured Prof. Karl Lutchmayer, Head of Music & Pedagogy and MTB Exams, as the resource person.
Speaking on the occasion, Arts and Culture Minister Paul Lyngdoh assured the state government’s continued support in nurturing young musical talent of Meghalaya.
He noted that Prof. Lutchmayer had highlighted the declining interest of governments and institutions in patronising the arts.
“But here in Shillong the scenario is just the reverse since; we are promoting local musicians. Today, we have not only gone global but we have been able to carve a niche,” Lyngdoh said.
According to him, blending Meghalaya’s rich musical traditions with global influences is key to further growth.
“We would like to see that such interactive sessions flourish. Shillong is India’s musical capital, and we want to further flourish that fame,” he said.
Lyngdoh further stated that the state government aims to provide professional guidance to composers, instructors and music teachers, given Meghalaya’s wealth of musical talent.
Meanwhile, Prof. Lutchmayer observed a general lack of government interest in investing in music.
“I named this workshop ‘Night Vision’ because night represents fear, comfort, imagination, horror and sometimes restfulness,” he explained.
The event was also attended by Arts and Culture Principal Secretary, FR Kharkongor.