JENIFER FERNANDES
At just 14, Mehaila Rodrigues of St Inez, a Class IX student of Our Lady of Rosary High School, Dona Paula, is already creating a world filled with rhythm, discipline, and dreams. For her, music isn’t just a hobby—it is the language through which she expresses joy, emotion, and purpose.
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Mehaila plays not one, but a remarkable range of instruments: the trumpet, saxophone, violin, guitar, flute, and even the piano and drums when she gets the chance. Her musical journey began early, when she first picked up the violin at the age of six. What started as curiosity quickly grew into passion, nurtured by the constant support and motivation of her father. Watching musicians perform at various programmes inspired her even further, pushing her to explore more instruments.
Playing the saxophone holds a special story. She has been playing it for three years now and mastered its basics in just six months. In the beginning, the saxophone felt challenging and demanding, but Mehaila never believed in giving up. She practised diligently, proving that with effort, any challenge can turn into confidence.
People often claim that the violin is one of the hardest instruments to learn, but Mehaila gently disagrees. To her, it becomes simple with regular practice and dedication. She believes that once you understand the violin, learning other instruments becomes easier.
Music is woven into her family’s daily life, and her biggest supporters are the people closest to her. Whether she plays at outdoor events or simply performs at home, Mehaila’s music brings joy. Many who watch her perform are surprised by her talent and often congratulate her and her family.
Despite her busy musical schedule, she never compromises on her studies. She keeps music as her passion while maintaining strong academic discipline, balancing both worlds with maturity beyond her age.
Her artistic talents extend beyond music—Mehaila has also performed in more than five tiatrs, bringing her creativity to the stage and broadening her experience as a performer. She dreams of studying further while continuing her musical journey. Even her teachers encourage her to consider becoming a professional musician, impressed by her skill, commitment, and passion.
She is currently pursuing 6th grade in violin, 4th grade in theory, and 4th grade in solfège, continuing her formal music training with dedication. Although her schedule is tight, she makes time to practise whenever possible, never waiting until the last minute to prepare—whether for exams or performances.
Some of her happiest moments include playing at school functions and performing for her sister’s 21st birthday—a memory that fills her with pride and joy. Performing at feasts and public functions brings her a special kind of happiness, especially when people appreciate her love for music.
Mehaila also carries a message she hopes the younger generation will hear: don’t shy away from learning blowing instruments like the trumpet or saxophone. Many avoid them thinking they are difficult. She encourages parents to support their children in learning at least one instrument, reminding everyone that music is just as important as academics in shaping a balanced life.
For Mehaila, talent is a gift from God—each person blessed uniquely and purposefully. She believes these gifts must be used, nurtured, and shared. And so, her appeal is simple yet profound: never stop learning, whether in music, sports, singing, or any other field.
In the harmony of her instruments, in the confidence of her performances, and in the humility of her words, Mehaila Rodrigues continues to inspire—proving that passion, supported by discipline and faith, can truly create magic.
