Panaji: Old Goa has long been a hub for exquisite choral performances, evidenced by its rich musical legacy dating back to the 17th century. Renowned Italian Carmelite Fr Giuseppe di Santa Maria once marveled at the talent he encountered at the Basilica of Bom Jesus, noting the prowess of local choirs, “I felt I was in Rome." This vibrant heritage came alive once again on a sultry Friday evening when over a thousand attendees gathered for a remarkable concert at India’s largest Catholic church, the Se Cathedral. The event featured the acclaimed Shillong Chamber Choir, a group renowned for their versatility and musical excellence.

As the evening commenced, the choir captivated audiences with the resonant tones of The Lord’s Prayer, setting the stage for a memorable performance. They moved seamlessly through touching pieces like “The Prayer” (by Bocelli/Dion) and “You Raise Me Up” (by Groban), illuminating the cathedral’s white walls with poignant scenes from the life of St. Francis Xavier. Notable was the heartfelt dedication of “Wind Beneath My Wings” to Xavier, whose relics were housed within the very walls that embraced the choir’s melodies.

This concert marked several firsts for the choir: it was their initial wholly Gospel showcase and their debut public concert in Goa. Founded in 2001 by Neil Nongkynrih, the choir usually integrates Bollywood hits with Western pop and classical repertoires. As anticipated, Goans quickly rearranged their schedules to attend this unique event.

During the performance, the choir’s skillful members stood out for their lack of typical accompaniment; there was no conductor, no sheet music, and no visual cues. Their seamless transitions across languages—English, Khasi, Aramaic—and genres displayed a level of precision that enthralled the audience. Each harmony, particularly the solos, elicited enthusiastic applause, showcasing a standard of choral music that exemplifies world-class talent.

The event, carefully curated by the Exposition Secretariat, included a stunning 3D projection on the cathedral’s walls that illustrated scenes from the saint's life. Additionally, the opening act featured InVox, a South Goa music ensemble performing a diverse selection of songs in Konkani, English, and Spanish.

Having risen to fame by winning India's Got Talent in 2010, the Shillong Chamber Choir concluded their performance with “My Tribute/To God be the Glory,” which had won them their championship title. Their finale featured the stirring “Vande Mataram,” as vibrant hues of the national flag illuminated the cathedral walls, marking a significant tribute to both faith and country.

For more insights into this unforgettable evening in Old Goa, visit Times of India.