PANAJI
Acclaimed percussionist Carlos Gonsalves of the ‘Talking Drums’ fame recently enthralled audiences in Portugal in a unique and creative way by performing the Ghumot, Goa’s state musical instrument.
The Mapusa-based percussionist along with veteran musician Sigmund de Souza performed at the Tourism Trade Fare in Portugal, which was organised by the Portugal government in Lisbon, as well as at other venues in Portugal.
Participants from all over the world were invited to the trade fair and Goa’s Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude along with his officials and a musical troupe represented Goa at the fair.
Over the years, Carlos has been promoting his self-designed project ‘Taking Ghumot to the World’ by performing the Ghumot all over the world.
The Ghumot was widely appreciated by the audience at the inauguration of the trade fair.
“People in Portugal are well aware of their historical ties with society, life and culture in Goa. I was pleased to receive a lot of enquiries about the Ghumot, its history and role in Goan music,” said Carlos.
“I also availed the opportunity to perform at a few famous music joints in Portugal, including a place called Alfama which happens to be the birthplace of Fado, the famous vocal art from Portugal that is well established in Goa as well.”
Carlos also performed at many pubs in Lisbon along with local musicians as well.
“At one such performance, I gifted my prized Ghumot to a fellow artiste as a token of universal brotherhood from Goa,” said Carlos.
“Just like Goa, the people of Portugal love music and food. With this tour, I am confident that the bonds of affection between Goa and Portugal will grow,” remarked Carlos, who also got a chance to visit the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima.
Carlos has been promoting his ‘Taking Ghumot to the world’ project, with different indigenous musical instruments along with Ghumot, such as Dhol, Dub, Tasha, Shamel, Kasale, Zanz, Madhalem and western instruments like drum set and acoustic guitar along with Goan traditional folk vocals. He has also performed for FC Goa and Royal Challengers at previous sporting tournaments.
Acclaimed percussionist Carlos Gonsalves of the ‘Talking Drums’ fame along with veteran musician Sigmund de Souza performed in Portugal.
