The Nagaland Chamber Choir to sing ‘as long as they have music’

DIMAPUR— People who were gathering at the Dimapur Airport to receive The Nagaland Chamber Choir (TNCC) members on Wednesday afternoon were in for a surprise as the World Choir Games gold medalists enthralled them with their rendition of “As long as I have music” after coming out of the airport.

A big crowd, comprising civil society leaders, friends and families of the TNC members, and well-wishers, received the 30-member choral team from the state with bouquets.

The Nagaland Chamber Choir won gold medals in both the categories -- Musica Contemporanea Mixed Voices and Mixed Chamber Choirs -- they competed in at the World Choir Games held in South Korea, from July 3 to the 13th.

More than 300 choirs from over 40 countries participated in the championship event organised by Interkultur, a world leading organiser of international choir competition.

Speaking after their arrival at the airport, TNCC conductor Hito Kiho said that they never expected such as big welcome. He said winning two gold medals at the World Choir Games was an honour, and that it was not only for the members but also for the entire Nagas and Indians.

He thanked everyone who had been supporting them from day one.

On their experience at the mega event, he said it was good; the competition was stiff with many ‘great’ choral groups from various countries competing.

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It was not just about winning the choir, he said, adding that they are so grateful for the opportunity and the support they have received from everyone.

Coordinator of group, Lima Pongen, shared that enthusiasm for music and friendship keep TNCC going since its establishment 20 years ago, in 2003.

When asked about the expenses, he said it was self-sponsored. With the fund raised from individuals, churches and families, they could meet the expenses for registration and their stay in Gangneung, but for travel, the choir members spent from their own pockets, it was informed.

“But we are thankful to God that we could achieve this,” said.

He also said that they were really encouraged by the gestures shown to them, and thanked the churches, family members and well-wishers for their love and support throughout their journey.

When asked about their next plan, he replied that they will leave it in the hands of God.

“We are determined to sing as long as we have music, and that is our commitment, and we will see what comes our next way,” he added.

Etsungmomo Kikon, president of Naga Council Dimapur (NCD), lauded the the choir members and said that it is a moment of joy and pride for every Naga. This achievement will definitely encourage the upcoming generation to excel, he added.

It was informed that TNCC got the privileged to perform at the closing ceremony of the event on July 13, and later at a 'thanksgiving concert' organised by the Naga Christian Fellowship Korea and the Embassy of India in Korea on July 16.

James Swu said that the choir was invited to a felicitation programme organised by Amit Kumar, the ambassador of India to Korea, on July 17.

Kumar congratulated them for the extraordinary achievement, bringing laurels to the country.

Related news: The Nagaland Chamber Choir shines at World Choir Games