SHILLONG: The Shillong Chamber Choir (SCC) gave a soul-lifting performance at the Garrison Ground on Friday to show its respect and love for the armed forces on the occasion of the 69th Republic Day.
With an eclectic list of songs in their repertoire, the SCC belted out one number and enthralled the men in uniform and their family members.
True to their promise, SCC gave a splendid performance of foot-tapping music that lit up the hearts of the audience on that bitterly cold evening.
Many left the comfort of their seats to gyrate to the music as William Basaiawmoit, the SCC soloist, enthused the audience to dance to their tune. The SCC surprised everyone with some of the Bollywood greats of yore which they blended with western music, which is their forte.
The highlight of the evening was the song Vande Mataram composed by SCC director Neil Nongkynrih. It was also the last number that never fails to kindle the flame of patriotism in the audience. It was a song befitting the occasion.
The programme was initiated by Lt Gen DS Ahuja, GOC 101 Area who is a friend of the Choir. Speaking to the audience, Nongkynrih said the Choir had special love and respect for the armed forces “who secure our lives and often serve in difficult situations”.
“On this auspicious occasion of Republic Day we wish to honour all the men in uniform and feel privileged that we are given this opportunity through the initiative of Lt Gen Ahuja who is a friend of the Choir,” he added.
Also present on the occasion was Lt Gen Shokin Chauhan, DG Assam Rifles, Air Marshal Anil Khosla, AOC-in C Eastern Air Command and the Meghalaya DGP, S B Singh.
For the audience it was a super treat. Christine Beale said she loved especially their rendition of ‘The Great Indian Train Journey’, which she says is their forte. “This is a number that is unique to the Shillong Chamber Choir and it is so real. It reminds me of a train journey in India,” she added.
The other performers included Gino and the Band, Annie Dance group and Vicky.
