Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 21: St Aloysius Pre-University College celebrated Music Day 2024, a spectacular event showcasing the exceptional musical talents of its students. The celebration featured exciting new additions, including the eastern classical band raaga, the all-girl band euphonious, and a diverse repertoire ranging from regional melodies to Japanese and Spanish compositions.
The programme began with a soul-stirring invocation by the college choir, followed by a graceful and vibrant welcome dance. In his welcome address, the principal, Fr Clifford Sequeira SJ, commended the students for their creativity, dedication, and discipline, encouraging them to discover their passions and pursue their dreams.
The ceremonial opening of the music box by the dignitaries marked the official commencement of Music Day 2024. The symbolic unveiling of icons of music and harmony beautifully reflected the spirit of the occasion.
The chief guest, Sweethin Hartman—renowned singer, songwriter, musician, and a proud alumnus of the institution—delighted the audience with heartfelt recollections of his student days, including his first performance on the same stage over 15 years ago. He shared invaluable insights on gratitude, self-empowerment, and embracing holistic learning while emphasizing the importance of family and friendships. His address concluded with the recitation of his evocative poem, A Thousand Suns, leaving the audience inspired.
In his presidential address, Fr Melwin Pinto SJ, rector of St Aloysius Institutions, highlighted the transformative power of music, describing it as an essential escape from the complexities of life.
Dignitaries present included the finance officer, Fr Pradeep Sequeira SJ, the campus minister, Fr Anthony Derrick SJ, vice principals Muralikrishna G M and Vilma Fernandes, along with staff conveners Anitha Pinto and Pallavi Prabhakaran. The student conveners, Clarissa Pearl Mathias, Alston Shaun Fernandes, and Sienna Ashley Monteiro, were also acknowledged for their significant contributions.
In recognition of their dedication and effort in organizing Music Day 2024, the student conveners and coordinators of the various bands were felicitated. Anitha Pinto, the staff convenor, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone who made the event a resounding success. Dayle Pinto seamlessly compered the formal programme.
The highlight of the day was Sweethin Hartman’s captivating performance, which included a soulful rendition of Munjane Manjalli on guitar and an electrifying saxophone performance of Uptown Funk. His performance set the stage for a mesmerizing musical showcase by the college’s bands: caravan, calliope, soundscape, nirvana, raaga, zenith, euphonious, and others. Unique acts such as the vocal workshop performance, beatboxing, and reapproved further demonstrated the extraordinary talent of St Aloysius PU College musicians.
The grand celebration concluded on a high note with energetic chende and nasik dhol beats, complemented by the rhythmic melodies of baila. Music Day 2024 was a vibrant testament to the artistic excellence and boundless creativity of the students, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.