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Nise Meruno seen speaking during the first Nagaland Music Industry Stakeholders Conclave at RCEMPA, in Jotsoma on June 21.[/caption]
Coinciding with World Music Day (WMD), the first Nagaland Music Industry Stakeholders Conclave was held at RCEMPA, Jotsoma in Kohima on June 21.
The day was packed with series of programmes including consultative meet with the stakeholders, open-mic challenge, and the concert.
Renowned musician Nise Meruno, who shared his journey as an artist during the event, spoke about the importance of being real and original in this age of social media. “You need to be real and not following the trends,” and “write songs that speak to you” he said.
Meruno, who is said to have faced the struggles of expectation that “really drains” oneself, urged the musicians to allow oneself to be real and spontaneous. Music is a performing art and it is important to “get real, be real, and keep your art real” Meruno said. He advised the upcoming artists to believe in themselves and to keep dreaming.
The key to success, he said is a 10% concentration and the rest is surrendering to the power of music.
Musician Marmenla Pongen also shared about her sheer hard work that had shaped her to who she is today. She started to sing at an early age of six. She said, her father who was not much of a music man did not support her musical journey, but it was her mother who inspired and supported her music journey.
‘Being humble, smart, hard work, passion is the key to success’ and ‘if we have the right passion, it will land us in the right destination,’ Pongen said.
She was of the view that there are a lot of platform provided by the government. She urged the upcoming artists to part take and explore opportunities with the government’s help. Pongen and her friends also performed their original piece “secrets.”
Coordinator Global Indigenous Prayer Network, Australia, Rev Louliehu Yimsung who graced the conclave as special guest believed that the Nagas will take music to the outside world. He encouraged the people to listen to each other’s story. ‘Lend your services, equipment, instruments to one another for people need each other’ at all situations, he added.
The daylong programme was held in three sessions starting 11 am. Dr Neikiesalie Kire, Advisor rural development and Lhouchalie Viya, secretary YRS were special guests of the concert and open Mic respectively.
Earlier, Music Task Force Project Director Hovithal Sothu said the main purpose of the workshop is for the musicians to air out their joys, sorrows and dreams. It is a platform for them to share their challenges and also deliberate on ways as to how Music Task Force (MTF) can be of help towards taking forward the music industry in Nagaland, said Sothu.
The topic and resource persons of the workshop were: Music education by Khyochano TCK, director or Music Academy Kohima; Choir by James Swu, Music director, Sümi Bapatist Church Kohima; Artist management by Theja Meru, member of Rattle and Hum Society; and Production by Atsung Jamir, proprietor of Audio Garage.
An Open Mic dedicated to all interested singers as a ‘platform to the young people’ was held.
The evening concert featured local artists from all categories. Altogether 17 bands and RJs performed at the evening concert.
The artists were Methaneile, Trance effect, Tune up channel, Since 90s, The Teaspoon Project, Tetseo Sisters, Atsunglir, Abdon Mech, Asu Jamir, Gabby Pucho, Linthoi, Ronnie, LC Sekhose, Rugks, Otto, Moko Koza, Keneisenuo Sorhie, Bozio Neinu, Ayim Longchar, Gear Men Dudes, Music Academy Kohima, Jam Tree, Wild Choir, Madnug, Afang & Crew, and Kevin Lywait. Meanwhile, mural paintings and artworks initiated by Project 72 hrs were also displayed.
The programme was powered by MTF and managed by Imagi.Nation.
Event partners are Audio Garage, Shiu Lights, metal gear, beat devices, KK motors, Crescendo, Unitex Powerline, Project 72hrs, Disong designs and Imprint.
(Our Correspondent)