MTB SkillForge to organise world-class music education in Nagaland and Meghalaya

DIMAPUR — Northeast is all set to resonate with music and learning with Music Teacher's Board (MTB) SkillForge - a series of music education events and concerts which will take place in Kohima, Dimapur, and Shillong from Oct. 6 onwards.

An update issued on Saturday informed that MTB SkillForge -- a pioneering initiative by MTB Exams, UK founded by Dr. Karl Lutchmayer (Head of Music & Pedagogy, India) -- is dedicated to raising the standards of music education in India.

‘With a focus on both teachers and students, MTB SkillForge offers transformative masterclasses and advanced educator workshops, equipping participants with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and world-class expertise. Backed by Dr. Lutchmayer’s decades of international experience, the programme blends global excellence with local accessibility, fostering a thriving community of musicians and educators,’ the update informed.

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The forthcoming Northeast India edition of MTB SkillForge continues this mission--bringing world-class training and inspiration to a region rich in musical talent and cultural heritage.

The series is said to open in Kohima on Oct. 6 in collaboration with Task Force For Music and Arts (TaFMA) with educator workshops, followed by a recital titled "Real Lives and Tall Tales: a recital of autobiographical reminiscence and fantastical narratives", featuring Dr. Lutchmayer and violinist Nourhe Khate.

The concert would open with a performance by the Sunshine Orchestra, an initiative of the A. R. Rahman Foundation.

The orchestra, which first connected with Nagaland during the 2018 Hornbill Festival, continues to nurture young talents through training with TaFMA.

“Their model is built on giving these young talents exposure to both Indian and Western musical traditions, letting them collaborate with international artists, and helping them develop confidence, discipline and opportunities for a future in music. While their access to resources is limited, their hunger for musical growth is evident. This opportunity in Kohima offers them a rare—and powerful—platform to grow and develop their musicianship skills, and celebrate how far they have come,” informed the update.

On Oct. 7 in Dimapur, the focus shifts to Hotel Saramati, where the educator workshops will be conducted, and the Master classes at the Margaret Shishak School of Music.

The educators in Dimapur will engage in hands-on mentoring in a focused, collaborative setting.

The events in Dimapur will be concluded with a concert opened by the Margaret Shishak School of Music Singers, featuring recital performances by both Dr. Karl Lutchamyer and Nourhe Khate.

The final stop for Northeast events is said to conclude on Oct. 9 in Shillong at LumJingsuk Homes, with Skillforge events during the day, ending with a performance by the vibrant Arora Choir at the same venue.

These collaborations with MTB SkillForge underscores the event’s mission: to connect musical expertise of international standards with local talent, and build a lasting impact on music education in North-East India.

For registrations and enquiries regarding the said events in Nagaland and Meghalaya, one may contact MTB Representative Yanpo Humtsoe #9615447255 or email yhumtsoe@india.mtbexams.com

October 6: Kohima

 • Educator workshops in Collaboration with Task Force ForceFor Music and Arts (TaFMA) at CEMA (Centre for Excellence in Music & Arts, Minister Hill). Registrations begin at 12.15 pm

 • Evening recital with Dr. Karl Lutchmayer and Nourhe Khate with an opening performance by the Sunshine Orchestra at RCEMPA in Collaboration with TaFMA from 5 pm onwards

October 7: Dimapur

 • Workshops at Hotel Saramati. Registrations begin at 9 am

 • Masterclasses at Margaret Shishak School of Music (MSSM)

 • Evening concert with Dr. Karl Lutchamyer and NourheKhate with an opening performance by the Margaret Shishak School of Music (MSSM Singers) at Bundrock Chapel Hall, Patkai Christian College from 6 pm onwards

October 9: Shillong

 • Workshops and masterclasses at LumJingsuk Homes

 • Evening concert with the Arora Choir