Morung Express Entertainment
In a breakthrough initiative, a group of musicians successfully pulled off a workshop designed to help upcoming Naga musicians. The workshop was held with the goal to unite Naga musicians and provide support and practical assistance to all musicians.
A great opportunity to exchange ideas and fresh insights and experiences, the workshop titled, “Out Of The Box” hosted a series of discussions which touched all arenas of the music industry. Musicians under the banner “Dimapur Music Community” were the people behind this initiative, but a remarkable fact is that the workshop was sponsored through collective contributions made by several musicians from their own pockets!
Yanpvuo Kikon, Founder, Indihut and Naga Blog, spoke on “Marketing Strategy” giving the young musicians a much needed insight on how to go about with online marketing. He also presented an analysis on the global and local industry trends, how to make money online, and how technology has changed the music industry. He also opined that music festivals have the potential to open up avenues not only for musicians, but for other local entrepreneurs too.
Yanren Kikon, Managing Partner of International Agency Network Ltd gave a brief overview on booking and tour planning. With his extensive experience in live tours and bookings, Yanren shared valuable tips and strategies for bands and managers.
Musicians Nise Meruno and Alobo Naga shared a discussion on the theme “Professionalism”. Having toured widely all over the country and several countries abroad, the two acclaimed musicians shared their experiences. Nise spoke on the importance of social networking. He also advised the upcoming musicians to maintain a wonderful personality both off stage and on stage, saying, “You have to breathe, look, act and live like a musician.” He also cited personal incidents where he came not only under criticisms but even physical attacks. “As musicians, even though we might not be after fame, we become visible and sometimes that leads us to vulnerable situations. But that hasn’t stopped me from doing the things I love,” he stated positively. Atsung Jamir from Audio Garage also shared his technical expertise in the area of “Sound Engineering”.
Gugs Chishi, Director, Music Task Force (MTF) spoke on “Role of Government as a facilitator”. He shared that the MTF concept was also born out of the box. He admitted that the government is the poorest performer in terms of getting results, but that does not mean it is confined to its limitations. “We look for every opportunity and ideas that come to us. And just as much as we accept the fact that we do not have raw infrastructure in Nagaland, the role of the government becomes easier when we can walk part of the road with you,” he addressed the young crowd of musicians. He also opined that the young, upcoming musicians are the most important facet of the music industry today.
The organizers also encouraged musicians from other districts to hold similar meetings in their respective districts, since it is not possible for all musicians to gather at one place. The workshop was attended by several musicians from other districts, and various other Naga artistes.
