Dimapur, Nagaland, recently became a vibrant hub for international musical exchange as it hosted the “Echoes of Italy” concert and workshop. Organized by Golden Crown Theological College (GCTC) in collaboration with the ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music), India National Youth Orchestra & Chorus (INYO), Istituto Italiano Di Cultura, and TaFMA, this two-day event (July 15-16) brought acclaimed Italian musicians Tommaso Benciolini (flute) and Lorenzo Bernardi (guitar) to India’s Northeast, creating a memorable celebration of music, learning, and cross-cultural collaboration.
The highlight of the event was Wednesday’s concert at the Dimapur Town Hall, where Benciolini and Bernardi captivated the audience with their masterful performances. They shared the stage with talented Naga musicians, including Avoni Odyuo, Mhathung Odyuo, Albert Kanken Odyuo, and Benry Moses, fostering a beautiful blend of international and local artistry.
A poignant moment arrived when Avoni Odyuo and friends presented a traditional Naga song, “Zayie Zayie Leh,” as a special tribute to the Italian duo, infusing the evening with authentic local flavor. In a delightful surprise, Lorenzo Bernardi joined Mhathung, Benry, and Albert for a heartfelt rendition of “Perfect Symphony,” seamlessly blending English and Italian lyrics and showcasing the universal language of music.
The concert commenced with an opening song by the students of GCTC, setting an inspiring tone for the evening. Another significant moment was a guitar ensemble performance by students who had participated in the previous day’s workshop, a testament to the practical skills gained under the guidance of the Italian maestros.
Dr. Hovithal Sothu, Project Director of TaFMA, lauded the event as a “rare and special opportunity” for Nagaland to experience a rich fusion of musical genres. He expressed profound gratitude on behalf of TaFMA and the state’s music community to Sonia Khan and the ABRSM for bringing such international talent to Dimapur, effectively helping to put Nagaland on the global music map. Dr. Sothu also encouraged young people to view music as a viable career path, emphasizing the shift in perception from hobby to a full-fledged profession. He highlighted TaFMA’s commitment to supporting all musical genres, from rock to classical, urging aspiring musicians to pursue their passion with dedication.
As Italian classical musician captivate Dimapur, Sonia Khan ABRSM Representative for India and Director of the Indian Youth Orchestra, shared her delight in contributing to Dimapur’s vibrant cultural landscape. She announced a significant development: for the first time, Nagaland will host approximately 14 days of ABRSM examinations this year, with visiting examiners from the UK. Looking ahead, Khan revealed plans for two major workshops in November, additional concerts next year including a high school concert and a choral festival, and the hope of bringing more international artists from Germany. She even hinted at the return of Benciolini and Bernardi in 2027, potentially joined by an American guitarist, signifying a continued commitment to fostering musical growth in the region.
The “Echoes of Italy” event wasn’t just about performances; it also provided invaluable educational opportunities. A total of 35 students received hands-on training in flute and guitar during workshops conducted in small batches on July 15. This direct engagement with seasoned international musicians offered local aspiring artists a unique chance to hone their skills and gain insights from global perspectives.
The “Echoes of Italy” concert and workshop successfully underscored music’s profound ability to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. By bringing world-class musicians to Dimapur and providing direct learning opportunities, the event has not only enriched Nagaland’s cultural scene but also laid a strong foundation for its continued integration into the global musical community. Italian classical musician captivate Dimapur, It’s a clear demonstration of how collaborative efforts can empower local talent and open new avenues for artistic expression and career development in the Northeast.