Shillongites traverse through music to Independence Day

Shillong, Aug 12 (UNI) Music loving Shillongites traversed the days of Independence through the journey of classical music performed by Jaiaw orchestra yesterday here after eight years.

The enthralled crowd cherished the olden classics and gave a standing ovation to the oldest orchestra led by octogenarian Webstar Davies Jyrwa as the seven-member orchestra opened up with numbers like 'Walk Right Back' and 'Merilu'.

The hours transformed into seconds as ballroom music comprised quickstep, slow foxtrot, samba, rumba, tango, waltz, to old Viennese and slow waltz.

The young and old alike rocked with the tunes of 'Sanimio' Italian version of 'Its Now or Never', 'Falling In Love With You' and the famous foot tapping samba song 'Brazile'.

''Though, we are aged now but it was another night to remember and we feel great by the encouragement given by the young crowd,'' said 70-year-old John Rynthathiang.

Jaiaw orchestra was formed in 1948 with a motto ''music for love peace and understanding,'' by a group of music loving friends led by Webster Davies Jyrwa and his team which include--John Rynthathiang, Arthur G Warren, Everland Syiemlieh, Sain Manik Syiemlieh, Headingson Rynthathiang and Finland Phnawar.

''We want to showcase to the world and especially the youngsters about the opulence of old classical music,'' said Ribor M B, the organizer of Silver Stars.

Mr Ribor said though the orchestra members became old but their desire to keep the music alive in this hill state always remained afresh.

The orchestra became popular and a household name when they started performing for All India Radio, Shillong, which was the only one broadcasting medium then.

The group had performed in several other states upon invitation from Governor's House, British tea gardens, hills and plains' festivals.

With the inclusion of fresh and talented musicians, the orchestra remained forever in people's heart.

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