The state of Goa is rich in culture and heritage, and art – especially performing art in Goa – in a unique feature of the state. Though all these forms fall under the wide classification of dance, drama and music, yet the music in Goa has a distinct Goan flavour and can be easily be distinguished from those of the other states. The most significant part about the music in Goa is the fact that it colorfully illustrates the unity in diversity of Goa’s chequered heritage. So in the sphere of music, there is an amalgam of Indian Hindu and Muslim and Portuguese Christian genres.
The richness of the music in Goa can be further demonstrated by the fact that most of the renowned names in the field of music in India have originated from Goa. The most prominent and well known of them is that of Lata Mangeshkar. Another name is that of Surashri Kesarbai Kerkar.
Despite such a multicultural influence in the music in Goa, Konkani is the predominant language in used in Goan music. Music is an integral part of Goan life and so you will find music in all things Goan – be it dance or drama. So, even the instruments accompanying the songs are of much importance. Some of the frequently used ones are the Shehnai and the Cymbal.
There are three major genres of songs in Goa: the Mando, the Ovi and the Suvari. These forms of music in Goa are of the traditional variety. However, there is a new breed of music in Goa that is increasing its grasp in Goa and that is the genre of electronic trance music; made popular by the late hippie culture. Western pop music is also fast becoming a favorite with Goans. Remo Fernandes is the most famous name in this genre of music in Goa.
Due to such a rich and diverse concoction in the area of music in Goa there are plenty of institutions and organizations that propagate and help the coming generations of Goans to imbibe the rich art. Given below is a compiled list of some institutions of Music in Goa:
1. Mahapurush Sateri Sangeet Bhajani Kala Mandal
Digas-Panchmari, Taluka-Phonda
Area of Interest: Music and Socio-Cultural Activities
2. Paingin Gopalkrishna Mandal
Canacona Goa 403702
Area of Interest: Music (Folk)
3. Pilar Music School
Pilar 403203
Pratibha Friends Circle
Borim
4. Shri Saraswati Sanskritik Mandal
Veling Mardol 403404
Area of Interest: Music, Folk Arts and Drama
5. Saint Cecilia Music School
Panjim
Swarbahar Sangeet Mandal
Borde Bichalim 403504
