The Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA), a key government initiative in Nagaland, is currently hosting a three-day Masterclass in Audio Management from May 21st to 23rd, 2025. Held at the Regional Centre of Excellence for Music and Performing Arts (RCEMPA) in Jotsoma, this workshop is a crucial part of TaFMA’s “Skilling Nagaland” capacity-building program.
The specialized training targets sound operators and technical personnel from across Nagaland, aiming to equip them with essential knowledge and practical skills in live sound and audio system management for various events and services. This initiative directly addresses the growing demand for skilled audio professionals in the state’s vibrant music and arts scene.
Building Professional Careers in Sound Engineering
During his inaugural address, Hovithal Sothu, Project Director of TaFMA, encouraged participants to maximize the benefits of this comprehensive training. He underscored audio management and sound engineering as not just technical skills, but as viable and promising professional career paths within the burgeoning entertainment industry.
The session, chaired by Aleno Sale, began with an invocation by Kecakielie, Evangelist from Koinonia Baptist Church. Menguzelie Marcus Geisuo, the Course Coordinator, provided an insightful introduction to the program’s objectives.
Hands-on Training for Practical Expertise
Nagaland upskills in Audio Management with TaFMA Masterclass is designed to be highly practical, featuring hands-on training sessions and in-depth technical insights. Participants will gain valuable operational competence, ensuring they are well-prepared to handle the complexities of sound engineering in real-world scenarios.
TaFMA remains committed to nurturing local talent and fostering the overall growth of Nagaland’s music and arts ecosystem through such targeted and inclusive training initiatives. These programs are vital for enhancing the quality of performances and events across the state.
Nagaland upskill in audio management with TaFMA’s Masterclass is more than just a training program; it’s an investment in Nagaland’s creative future. By providing vital hands-on experience and promoting sound engineering as a viable career path, TaFMA is directly contributing to a more professional and dynamic music and arts ecosystem across the state. These skilled professionals will undoubtedly elevate the quality of live events and performances, further solidifying Nagaland’s reputation as a hub for emerging talent and vibrant cultural expression.
TaFMA: A Catalyst for Nagaland’s Creative Economy
The Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) stands as a pivotal force in the cultural landscape of Nagaland, playing an indispensable role in transforming the state’s rich artistic talent into a sustainable industry. Born from the vision to promote, professionalize, and provide platforms for Naga artists, TaFMA goes beyond mere support. It actively creates opportunities through capacity-building programs like “Skilling Nagaland,” mentorship initiatives, and by facilitating participation in national and international events. By focusing on critical skills like audio management, understanding copyright and royalties, and fostering entrepreneurial spirit, TaFMA empowers musicians, performers, and technical personnel to build viable careers. This strategic approach not only preserves and propagates Nagaland’s unique musical heritage but also positions the state as a vibrant hub for the arts, driving economic growth and cultural exchange.
Beyond the recent audio management masterclass, the Task Force for Music and Arts (TaFMA) has established itself as an overarching government initiative dedicated to nurturing and elevating the music and arts industry in Nagaland. Its strategic importance lies in its multi-pronged approach, which extends far beyond simply organizing events.
Key Objectives and Initiatives:
* Capacity Building (“Skilling Nagaland”): This is a cornerstone of TaFMA’s work. Through various workshops and masterclasses, TaFMA aims to professionalize the arts sector. Recent examples include:
* Audio Management Masterclass: As discussed, this equips technical personnel with crucial live sound and audio system management skills.
* Foundational Music Production Workshop: This initiative focuses on equipping aspiring music producers with essential production skills and exposure to modern music technology, including AI in music production.
* Workshop on Managing Rights and Royalties: In collaboration with the Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS), TaFMA educates artists on copyright protection, licensing, and royalty collection, empowering them to safeguard their intellectual property and maximize earnings.
* Platform Creation and Promotion: TaFMA actively creates opportunities for Naga artists to showcase their talent both within and outside the state.
* Hornbill Music Festival: TaFMA is a key organizer of this internationally recognized festival, providing a major stage for local and international acts.
* “Voice of Nagaland”: A talent hunt designed to discover and promote musical talent from across all parts of the state.
* “TaFMA Excellence Awards”: These awards recognize and celebrate Naga artists who have achieved national and international acclaim, inspiring future generations.
* Open House Nights: These district-level initiatives foster greater community involvement and help scout and nurture local talent at the grassroots.
* Infrastructure Development: TaFMA works towards building physical infrastructure to support the arts. The Regional Centre of Excellence for Music and Performing Arts (RCEMPA) in Jotsoma is a prime example, providing a dedicated space for training, practice, and performance.
* Strategic Partnerships: TaFMA understands the power of collaboration. It has forged significant partnerships with:
* Corporate Houses: Collaborations with companies like Toyota and Raymond Group provide financial support, sponsorship for events (like Hornbill Music Festival), and opportunities for artists.
* International Institutions and Embassies: Partnerships with entities like MusiConnect Asia, and various embassies (including Israel, USA, UK, Italy, Colombia, and Latvia) create avenues for international exposure, exchange programs, and global recognition for Naga artists. This also includes participation in events like WOMEX (Worldwide Music Expo) and hosting the Asia Music Summit.
* Industry Bodies: The MoU with IPRS is a testament to TaFMA’s commitment to protecting artists’ rights and intellectual property.
Impact on Nagaland’s Music and Arts:
TaFMA’s efforts have had a transformative impact on Nagaland’s music and arts scene:
* Professionalization: By focusing on technical skills, legal aspects, and career development, TaFMA is moving the industry towards a more professional footing.
* Economic Empowerment: Through skill development and market linkages, TaFMA helps artists generate sustainable incomes, contributing to the state’s rural economy. The emphasis on royalty collection is crucial for artists to monetize their work effectively.
* Global Recognition: International partnerships and participation in global events have put Naga artists on the world stage, showcasing their unique cultural heritage.
* Nurturing Talent: From mentorship programs like the TaFMA Music Mentorship Program to competitions like “Voice of Nagaland,” TaFMA provides a structured environment for budding artists to hone their skills.
* Cultural Preservation and Promotion: While fostering modern artistic expressions, TaFMA also plays a role in preserving and promoting Nagaland’s rich traditional music and arts.
In essence, TaFMA acts as a government-backed accelerator for the creative industries in Nagaland, building not just individual careers but a vibrant and economically significant arts ecosystem for the entire state.