Dolcy D’Cruz
Stuti’s Christmas concerts had once again become a cherished December tradition for audiences in Goa. This year, the Stuti Choral & String Ensemble performed the Christmas section of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ over two evenings in Old Goa, presenting at the Museum of Christian Art and at the Royal Chapel of St Anthony. The concerts drew a mix of long time supporters and first-time listeners, all of whom were treated to a blend of choral and orchestral excellence, as the ensemble delivered a series of spirited and meticulously prepared performances. Many attendees spoke of the sense of unity created by the ensemble. Heta Pandit, who attended the concerts, said what stayed with her most was “the camaraderie and the unison of voices.” She added, “It is absolutely wonderful to hear. And at the same time, if you point your ear to any one performer, you can actually hear a single, distinctive voice. Isn’t that a miracle in itself?” Her reflections echoed the sentiments of many in the audience who found the performances both moving and inspiring. Conducting duties were shared between Stuti’s director Parvesh Java and younger conductors Nadine Crasto and Smit Shah. Parvesh led key sections, including the ‘Hallelujah’ chorus and ‘Amen’, while Nadine and Smit guided much of the programme. Fr Jason Keith Fernandes, who attended both performances, described it as “a privilege” to witness the concerts. He noted that the ensemble took care to tailor each evening’s programme so returning audiences would experience something new. Fr Jason highlighted the performances of Goan-origin tenor Orlando Querobino Vaz, particularly his rendition of ‘Domine Deus’ from Puccini’s ‘Petite Messe Solennelle’, and lead violinist Eshvita Menezes for their expressive and skillful artistry, praising the emotional depth they brought to the music. Within the ensemble, musicians also reflected on the experience of working under multiple conductors. Violinist Ravi Almeida said, “Playing under two new conductors was a fascinating experience. It taught me that an ensemble responds not just to the baton, but to the conductor’s entire presence.” Other listeners, such as Reece D’Mello, focused on the emotional impact: “I took a friend from out of town, and the performance truly brought back feelings of home.” Cheryl Colaco added that the selection of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ was perfect for the season and praised Parvesh’s leadership, noting his mastery, humility, and encouragement of young talent. Chorister Sergio Martires reflected on his journey with the ensemble: “It’s been a privilege to sing in Stuti over the years. The choir has really grown in technique, vocal ability and overall presentation. For a working professional like myself, it’s something I genuinely look forward to and enjoy.” Looking back on the concerts, Parvesh described the experience as deeply meaningful: “As I reflect on my journey with Stuti over the last ten years, it is a meaningful achievement to be conducting alongside the next generation. I was deeply moved by Nadine and Smit’s musicianship and their ability to lead such a large ensemble.”
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Maria Fabiola Lopes e Fernandes conducted a special Christmas musical concert titled ‘Jesus, the Healer’, bringing together music, faith, and community in a celebration of hope and joy at the Rosary Church, Caranzalem. Fabiola led a group of 21 participants, while Fr Jaeison Monteiro, SJ, served as the compere and commentator for the programme. The concert featured a blend of instrumental performances and vocal carols, presented by musicians and singers from across Goa. The ensemble included Myron and Anthony on violin, McAnthony on keyboard, Glenn on guitar, Antonio on saxophone and clarinet, and Chriselle on cello. Vocal performances were rendered by Fredy, Hayden, Rosy, and Lisandra. The violin section comprised Andrea, Simone, Kimberly, Cloney, Sheena, Frenia, Haloise, Esther, Shenal, Pavitha, and Fabiola herself, contributing to a rich orchestral sound. While several wind instruments were part of the arrangement, the flute was not included in this performance. The repertoire reflected both traditional and contemporary Christmas themes. The carol list included classics such as ‘The First Noel’, ‘Deck the Halls’, ‘O Christmas Tree’, ‘Silent Night’, and ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’, along with reflective pieces like ‘When Darkness Is Over’, ‘Christmas Candle’, and ‘Jesus the Healer’. A special highlight was ‘Anondbhorit Kuxal Za’, a Konkani carol performed a cappella, which added cultural and spiritual depth to the evening. Speaking about her inspiration, Fabiola said, “My main reasons: to fill hearts with joy, spirits, laughter, healing through music.” She added, “I don’t know to prepare any Christmas sweets so I do musical concerts. That’s how I feel happy at Christmas as Jesus is the reason for this season.” Explaining the significance of the concert’s title, she noted, “Jesus, the healer is a religious hymn on joyful lips hymn book which touched my heart so this title made a difference for me and others.” The preparation for the concert was itself a joyful journey. Group rehearsals were held each lasting two hours and conducted with strict discipline. Many participants included Fabiola’s family members, music students, and close music friends, creating a strong sense of unity. The performers represented several Goan villages, including Britona, Miramar, Carambolim, Merces, Corlim, Divar, Marcel, Caranzalem, and Old Goa. Fabiola emphasised the relevance of the concert’s message, stating, “‘Jesus, the Healer’ summarised that healing from all bad, sicknesses, diseases, depression, evil, and wars was the need of the day.” She added, “He is the saviour, the best medicine, care taker, way of life and true love, happiness.” According to her, the title touched many viewers, leaving them with a strong sense of positivity, hope, trust, and joy. The concert is available through the Basilica’s official YouTube platform, allowing the performance to reach a wider audience.
Child’s Play India Foundation, in association with Clube Harmonia de Margao, organised ‘Prelude to Christmas’, a musical evening featuring choir and orchestral performances. The Child’s Play Chorus from the Margao branch featured over 30 performers led by Vanessa Menezes. The choir performed songs including ‘Eye of the Tiger’, ‘Roar’, and ‘You’ve Got a Friend in Me’, alongside traditional carols such as ‘Hark the Herald’ and ‘Silent Night’. Their performances were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience. The evening also featured Camerata Goa, the foundation’s orchestra conducted by Dr Luis Dias. The ensemble performed classical carols including ‘Coventry Carol’, ‘What Child Is This’, ‘In Dulce Jubilo’, and ‘Go Tell It on the Mountain’. Camerata Goa later performed at the Museum of Christian Art’s ‘Carols on the Hill’, followed by the Child’s Play Chorus extending the foundation’s presence in Goa’s festive music calendar. Reflecting on the foundation’s choral projects, Dr Luis Dias said, “We have choral projects currently in Margao and Saligao, and we hope to start one in Panjim in the new year. The 30-strong Margao choir performed at MoCA and were led by Vanessa Menezes. The Margao choir has given five performances in the past few months and we love the enthusiasm of the children and the parents. Our choral projects are open to all and we hope more young people join us to experience the beauty of singing together.”
