Training on Bangla Kheyal in Mymensingh

Some 80 young classical singers from different districts including Mymensingh, Netrakona, Jamalpur, Sherpur, Tangail, Kishoreganj, Sirajganj, Gaibanda and Jessore joined the programme. Key guests included Azad Rahman, veteran music composer and ex-director general of Bangladesh Shilpakla Academy; Alif Laila, assistant professor of Music Department of Jatiya Kabi Kazi Nazrul Islam University (JKKNIU); and Ustad Karim Shahabuddin. 

Marking the concluding session, performance of the participants will be held at the same venue today, sources said. They will also be honoured with certificates.

A discussion was held marking the inauguration of the programme.

Mustakim Billah Faruqui, Deputy Commissioner of Mymensingh; Pakhwaj player Biswajit Natya and poet Anwara Sultana addressed the opening session, among others.

Arzu Parves, district cultural officer, delivered the welcome speech.

The speakers said practice of traditional and classical music is on the decline due to lack of proper training and classical masters throughout the world.

If training programme is held at the grassroots level, it will inspire the young talents for classical music and Bangla Kheyal as well,” said the speakers. “There is no scope to be a good musician without practicing classical music, including kheyal,” they opined.