Portuguese music in Goa is a rich tapestry woven from the region's colonial history and vibrant local culture. Introduced during Portuguese rule (1510-1961), this music reflects a blend of traditional Goan folk elements with Portuguese influences. The melancholic melodies of Fado can be heard in Goan music, often expressing themes of longing and nostalgia, often seen in Mando. In Goan music, instruments like the guitarra and the mandolin are commonly used, alongside local instruments such as the ghumott. Despite globalization, efforts continue to preserve traditional Goan Portuguese music through festivals, competitions, and local artists who blend old and new styles. Overall, Portuguese music in Goa is not just a historical remnant but a living expression of the region's identity, reflecting its unique heritage and the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultures.
One of the most eagerly awaited song competitions for young, aspiring singers who enjoy singing in Portuguese is called 'Vem Cantar'. In 1998, the Heritage Cell of Rosary College of Commerce & Arts, Navelim, hosted the inaugural "Vem Cantar" contest. Since its modest beginnings, the competition has developed into one of Goa's most anticipated yearly occasion.
It is held in a number of age-appropriate categories, in solo as well as group performances. The 26th edition of the Vem Cantar will be hosted this year by Fundação Oriente in collaboration with the Heritage Cell of the Rosary College of Commerce and Arts, Navelim. The competition, will comprise of three divisions among the participants. There will be three age groups: 8–11, 12–15, and 16 years and up.
Numerous organizations have been connected to the competition over the last several years. To mention a few, the V. M. Salgaocar Institute of International Hospitality Education (VMSIIHE), Cidade de Goa, Semana da Cultura Indo-Portuguesa, Clube Harmonia de Margão, Centro de Língua Portuguesa - Instituto Camões, Consulate General of Portugal (Consulado Geral de Portugal), and de Souza Group have been associated with the big event.
Overwhelmed by the response to the competition, Paulo Jorge Da Silva Gomes, director of Fundação Oriente, says that the competition encourages school children to sing in Portuguese, even if they don't speak the language. He further states that they received over hundred applications this year, and that it was really tough to select the twenty-six finalists. We see that the music that one gets to listen to, at this competition is not just restricted to that of Portugal, but rather has flavors from all around the lusophone world. Paulo states that, he is indeed really very happy to see about 50% new faces as far as this year’s participation is concerned.
While calling up to inform the finalists that they have reached the finals gives immense joy, our heart aches when informing other contestants that they didn’t make it therePaulo Jorge Da Silva Gomes, director, Fundação Oriente
The preparation for Vem Cantar commences somewhere in June and takes about four-months to reach unto the finals. Encouraging people to sing in Portuguese in Goa can be a wonderful way to celebrate the region's rich cultural heritage! Here are some ways in which Vem Cantar inspires people from Goa to sing in Portuguese. The initiative helps showcase local musicians and singers who sing in Portuguese. This inspires others and creates a sense of pride in the language and culture of the state. Vem Cantar also results in people learning to sing new songs in Portuguese and thus to some extent incorporate Portuguese singing into local festivals or cultural celebrations, emphasizing the importance of the language in Goa’s identity.
This year, the finals of Vem Cantar are scheduled for Sunday, 29th September 2024 at 5:00 pm at the Institute Menezes Braganza, in Panjim. By celebrating and embracing Portuguese music, one can help keep the language vibrant and encourage more people to join in the joy of singing! The competition highlights the role of music in shaping Goan identity, using Portuguese songs as a means to strengthen community bonds, thus encouraging local artists to participate in it, fostering an environment of shared learning and cultural exchange
By promoting Portuguese singing in Goa, one can not only help revitalize the language but also celebrate the rich cultural tapestry that defines the region. Music has the power to connect people, and through initiatives like Vem Cantar, Goans can embrace their heritage in an even more vibrant and meaningful manner.
In a nut shell, the 'Vem Cantar' singing competition exemplifies the enduring love for Portuguese music in Goa. It not only celebrates a rich cultural heritage but also promotes community engagement, talent development, and intergenerational connections, ensuring that the beauty of Portuguese music continues to resonate in the hearts of fellow Goans.