Nepal Music Center sees for itself a role in the promotion of Nepali artists. We believe that musicians and dancers are creators and bearers of specialized knowledge, and should be celebrated by a wide audience.
To this end, NMC stages regular concerts by performers of a variety of genres. The idea behind these concerts is that performance signals respect in many directions. For one, inviting musicians to perform for an audience signals the organizers’ recognition of the importance of that music. Performing also allows musicians to polish their craft to the best of their ability and share it with the public, an indication of respect both to the music and to the audience. Finally, the audience turning up and listening to performers shows them that their work is valued, and that they should continue to make music.
Recently, a concert was held at NMC auditorium to honor the teachers and assistants of the Neku Jatraya Mataya Sameti Samman, a committee of neku players that works to keep this instrumental tradition alive. This event stood out from others in that the honored guests were not asked to perform; instead, Nepal Sangeet Vidhyalaya’s dhimey teacher Nucche Bahadur Dangol performed with some of his students for the neku teachers and assistants. This tribute was enhanced when these guests were presented with khatas and certificates to further honor their contribution to their musical tradition and to their country. Similar events have been held for musicians from the Rai community, as well as from Chitwan.
In these ways, NMC is looking to become a platform for the promotion Nepali musicians of all styles. The difficulties of the music scene are well known the world over, and providing an inclusive, welcoming performance space can help address some of these challenges. In short, we hope to celebrate the work of as many musicians as possible, so that their crafts can be shared with and appreciated by all.