Chief Minister Attends ABRSM Guitar Workshop & Musical Concert at Tura Tura, August 30, 2025

Chief Minister, Conrad K. Sangma, today graced the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) Guitar Workshop and Musical Concert in Tura as the Chief Guest.

Also present were Mrs. Sonia Khan, Indian Representative of ABRSM and Guest of Honour, Abraham T. Sangma, Superintendent of Police, West Garo Hills, Vibhor Aggarwal, Deputy Commissioner, West Garo Hills, along with other senior officials and dignitaries.

In his address, the Chief Minister noted that although he had been invited at short notice, he immediately recognized the significance of the initiative. He expressed surprise at the scale and quality of the programme, affirming that his instinct to attend had been right. He thanked the institutions and organizations involved and recalled fond memories of performing on the same stage as a young musician in 1996 and 1997, when the auditorium was in a dilapidated condition but remained close to his heart.

Returning now, he said, not as a musician but as Chief Minister, felt like part of God’s plan.
Reflecting on his journey, he described himself as a “failed musician” but reaffirmed his belief that music can transform lives, societies, and communities. Stressing the importance of music, sports, and extracurricular activities in youth development, he reiterated his government’s commitment to supporting these sectors.
He highlighted the challenges his generation faced without platforms like YouTube, mentors, or formal music education—one of the reasons his government, over the past seven years, has invested in programmes such as the Grassroots Music Program. He informed the gathering that last year alone, over ₹35 crore was spent to support nearly 7,500 artists across Meghalaya, giving them platforms at tourist destinations, cafés, and official programmes.
Emphasizing that financial support and exposure are only the beginning, he underlined the need for structured academic training in music, including learning to read and write music, understanding theory, and accessing proper equipment, recording studios, and institutions to elevate Meghalaya’s music further. He concluded by expressing optimism about the positive impact this initiative would have on the children of Tura.
Mrs. Sonia Khan described the occasion as a historic milestone, announcing that ABRSM examinations are being held in Tura for the first time, with a UK examiner set to assess local students. She highlighted ABRSM’s mission to bring world-class music education to underserved regions and dedicated the concert to the people of Tura in recognition of their musical passion.
Organized in collaboration with the Chief Minister’s Youth Development Scheme and the Rhythm School of Music, the two-day programme formed part of ABRSM India’s efforts to expand music education and examination opportunities in the region. Featuring acclaimed American guitarist Matt Bacon, the event offered young musicians invaluable learning experiences and a platform to perform alongside established artists.
The programme began with a Guitar Workshop conducted by Matt Bacon on Friday, which drew nearly 150 enthusiastic participants from Tura and neighboring areas and concluded with a Musical Concert showcasing captivating performances by Bacon, local musicians, and students from the Rhythm School of Music—an evening of cultural exchange and artistic celebration.