Coming from a little known, but serene and environmentallypeaceful and beautiful hamlet of Consua situated off the four lane NH 17 Bhighway in Mormugao, Elffio looks unassuming, but a close look can indicate thefire in his eyes to do something extraordinary.
All of 24 years of age, Elffio Fernandes was the centre ofdiscussion at the TAG Konkani Song and Music Awards 2011 when he surprisedestablished names in the field of music to take the honours and title of ‘TAGBest Konkani Album 2011’. The award carries a trophy, certificate and bumpercash prize of Rs. 20,000/-. The prize winning Konkani album produced by him was‘Tum Mhozo’, an exclusive love song compilation.
“I always had the desire to produce my own Konkani musicalbum with renowned singers, but lacked monetary support. I worked for fourmonths to set the melody and music to this album, the lyrics for which werepenned by Zemira D’Souza. I am all the more happy, because besides winning thetitle of ‘Best Album’ from among 26 other albums in the competition, there werefour nominations for my album in four different categories. This is anachievement in itself for a ‘first timer’,” said Elffio.
Elffio handpicked his musicians to play in his album ‘TumMhozo’. These include Victor on the violin, Belgaum based saxophonist Ishant,Ashley Teles on bass, Chris Correia on the guitar, and Elffio himself onkeyboards.
Elffio, who keeps a low profile, is not new to the Konkanitiatr scene though. He has played the keyboards professionally for severalKonkani tiatrs including those of Comedian Ambe, Milagres de Chandor, PascoalRodrigues and others. Besides, he has provided the music for around eight audioalbums of other singers.
Elffio is grateful to his entire team who have supported himin his maiden venture, especially his ever-supportive vocalist Acacio to whomhe had first disclosed his plans. He is also thankful to Lorna and Sonia whoreadily agreed to lend their voices to this album even though he was a newcomerin the field.
