The Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project, in collaboration with the Tourism Department and The Meghalayan Age, has announced the highly anticipated launch of its second season, slated from October 4 onwards. The event will take place in Khyndailad, Police Bazar in Shillong, promising a spectacular showcase of Meghalaya’s musical talent.
Building on the resounding success of its inaugural season in 2022, the Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project was conceived by the Government of Meghalaya with the vision of nurturing and promoting local musicians, songwriters, composers, event firms, and technical vendors. Furthermore, the project aims to forge a profound connection between music and tourism, spotlighting the rich cultural heritage of Meghalaya.
Chief Minister of Meghalaya Conrad K Sangma will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest, along with Minister of Tourism, Bah Paul Lyngdoh, gracing the occasion as the Guest of Honour. It is noteworthy that both the Ministers have been closely associated with music, not only in its promotion but also in performance.
The Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project was officially launched by the Chief Minister on April 26, 2022. This project also offers venues where tourists and locals may enjoy a range of musical acts and attractions, while also giving musicians, technical suppliers, and budding event businesses, among others, jobs and financial assistance.
Around 1,600 performers were given opportunities to perform at cafes, busking areas, and at special events over the course of the last ten months as part of the MGMP, which has organized around 3,000 music events in Shillong, Tura, Jowai, and Sohra.
The total number of MGMP artists engaged in Shillong from May, 2022- May 2023 is 1735 in Shillong, 281 in Sohra, 117 in Jowai, and 216 in Tura. As far as Street performances platform (busking) is concerned, a total 650 artists performed in Shillong, 325 in Sohra, 320 in Tura. Again, 650 artists performed at café gigs in Shillong, 325 in Sohra, 325 in Jowai and 320 in Tura. There were 15 special curated music events in Shillong, 1 in Sohra and 12 in Tura.
Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project (MGMP) not only serves as a catalyst for emerging musicians but also promises tourists a unique opportunity to enjoy musical extravaganzas. An exciting calendar of events, along with special performances, is meticulously curated to cater to music enthusiasts.
Since its inception, MGMP has witnessed a wave of talented artists. The State Government has built spaces in Khyndailad, Laitumkhrah, Mawkdok, and Sohra for these live street musical events. Cafes in Shillong, Jowai and Tura regularly to host live performances, busking and street plays, café gigs on a regular basis.
This year’s launch of Meghalaya Grassroots Music Project – Season 2 promises to be an unforgettable event, celebrating the fusion of music, culture, and tourism in Meghalaya. With the support of the government, talented artists, and enthusiastic music lovers. MGMP will continue to be a shining beacon for the field of music in the state.