After widespread appreciation of their first performance in Konkani in London, Goan-origin opera singer Oscar Castellino and musicians from UK’s only blind orchestra, Inner Vision Orchestra are keen to record more songs in Konkani and they need your support. You can support them in many ways with ideas, help with recording or donations.
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How did this start?
The Inner Vision Orchestra’s music director, Baluji Shrivastav OBE invited Castellino to perform with the orchestra at the Commonwealth Christmas Concert 2020 in London and Castellino suggested he would sing something in Konkani. (video above)
The video of the carol received more than 40,000 views combined across social media and Castellino was interviewed by Prudent Media TV and Navhind Times. Many in Goa loved the idea of showcasing a Konkani song on the global stage and the singing of Konkani in the operatic style. This performance has captured the imagination of many Goans and has given them hope for a bright future for their language and culture.
What’s next: Unearthing Goan Music Jewels
Castellino has had many requests to record Konkani songs of the past that need revival and he along with the Inner Vision Orchestra musicians are planning to record a set of songs in Konkani in the first few months of 2021. (Please contact Oscar Castellino if you have some ideas)
Baluji Shrivastav and Oscar Castellino are also keen to record O Holy Night in Konkani before Christmas 2020, as they feel this would add something special to this unusual Christmas.
What can you do to help?
In order to produce the recording Castellino has made an appeal on behalf of the Baluji Music Foundation, a foundation that seeks to support blind musicians. Donations through the link provided here will go directly towards The Konkani Opera Project. Thus you will not only be helping preserve Goan culture, but at the same time provide employment to blind musicians who will record the songs along with Castellino. The Baluji Music Foundation has a strong connection with Goa, having launched it’s Antardrishti project at the International Centre Goa.
Early donations would be appreciated as they can go towards the recording of O Holy Night in Konkani by Shrivastav and Castellino.
Oscar Castellino 