by M P Rodrigues for Daijiworld News Network
The Venue - Taj Mahal Hotel, Mangalore. Harry D'souza, popularly known as Harriyab of Harry's Silver Band, Bejai walked in at 9:20 am. Over a cup of tea we spoke about the preparations for the centenary celebrations of his brass band on Sunday 12th February 2006.
It is indeed a unique feat in the history of of music.
It will be hard to find a music band or orchestra group in the world where the baton has been handed over to the third generation. Seldom do you find a group that has lasted for a quarter century leave alone a century.
The Silver Band which had its inception in the year 1906 was then called Lorsam's Band. The founder Lawrence D'souza, popularly known as Lorsam held the baton until the year 1953 and then passed it on to his 40 year old son Michael Ambrose, popularly known as Ediyab. Lorsam died at the ripe age of 96. Ediyab was an ace trumpet player, but later in the old age switched over to clarinet. He played practically until his last breadth. "His last outing with the band was for the funeral of his friend", Harriyab told me. The very next year he died at the age of 83.
By then his son Harry had ample experience. Other than playing under the leadership of his father, he served in the police band for 10 years. He went overseas for a brief stint of 22 months and came back to take the leadership of the band in 1982. Since then Harry has improvised, modernised and left no stone unturned to make the band popular.
I gauged Harry's thoughts and emotions on the occassion of the centenary celebrations in this brief interview:
M.P. : "Harriyab, what are your thoughts and emotions on this august occassion?"
Harry : Musically it is a feeling of fulfilment, physically I am tired and financially this business is not worth pursuing.
M.P. : Do you feel that you have not received enough support from our people?
Harry : I have received very good support from our people. My band is called to perform at 200-250 functions in a year. Had it not been for the support of our people, I would not have survived. But it is physically tiring and financially not a rewarding business.
M.P. : I have heard that you have many sets.
Harry : As far as instruments are concerned I have six sets. But as a matter of fact I have only two divisions A & B with 25 artists in total.
M.P. : Who leads the other division?
Harry : Band 'B' is led by an able musician who is also the leader of the police band, but he cannot be present on all occassions.
M.P. : Do you engage trained musicians or they are trained by you?
Harry : Some of them are trained beforehand and some get perfected in my band by on-the-job practice.
M.P. : Wilfy Remimbus told me that you have played for him at his Wilfy Nites.
Harry : Yes, I have played at seven of his Nites.
M.P. : You have a son, right? Does he intend to carry on the family tradition after you?
Harry : My son who is in II B.Com is not inclined to continue this tradition. I shall not persuade him to do so either.
M.P. : How about your preparation for the centenary celebrations?
Harry : The preparations are in full swing. The support of my friends, well wishers and especially the parish priest, Rev. Fr. J.P.Tauro has been tremendous.
M.P. : Harriyab, I wish your centenary celebrations all the success it deserves.
Harriyab needs our financial support to keep going and continue this fine musical tradition for many more years to come. Well wishers can send their mite to Turbent, c/o Harry D'souza, Geeth Sangeeth Vihar, 5th cross, Bejai New Road, Mangalore 575004
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