Fado, the traditional Portuguese music genre and art form can be traced back to
the early 1800s. The Institute Menezes Braganza hall was filled with an eager
audience waiting in anticipation for the rhythmic and melodious notes of the
Fado, and they were not disappointed. The ninth edition of the Semana da
Cultura Indo Portuguesa (Goa) hosted its ‘5th Concurso de Fado’, which saw an
enthusiastic audience turn up to cheer for the state’s young talent.
Judged by music aficionados Fatima Figueredo, Esmenia Viega
Coutinho and Gilda Machado, the competition saw some of the state’s best talent
compete onstage for the coveted prizes.
The competition saw participation from contestants in three
categories: 10 to 15 years, 16 to 21 years of age and above 22 years.
In the first category, Poorita Vaz was adjudged the first place
for his soulful rendition of the Fado, while Kiana Zara Menezes and Eric J
Pereira won the second and third place respectively. “It was very exciting,
right from preparing for the competition, to executing it,” says Poorita.
In the second category, Daniella Fernandes took home the first
prize with a power packed performance. The second and third place was awarded
to Sigrid Celestial Velusha Fernandes and Jeannete Camilla Barbosa Noronha
respectively.
Daniella had won the first place last year as well. “I came back
as a better version of myself this year all thanks to Sonia Shirsat and the
practice sessions held by Carlos Menezes and Orlando de Noronha,” says
Daniella.
In the third category, Linus Fernandes walked away with the
first prize Loraine Ethel Barreto Alberto and Grisha Costa won the second and
third prize respectively.
The organisers said they were elated with the increased turnout
at this year’s edition, adding that the contestants elevated the event to a
whole new level this year.
The
first ever Fado singing competition which was held in 2013 saw a lot of young
talent emerge. In an effort to encourage the beautiful art form, Semana da
Cultura Indo Portuguesa (Goa) collaborates with Institute Menezes Braganza and
Taj Group of Hotels to host the Fado singing competition each year.
