The Department of Western Music celebrated the founder’s day of its maestro Antonio de Figueiredo at Kala Academy recently.
Ex-teachers, Ms Leopoldina Figueiredo, Ms Filomena Afonso and Ms Philomena D’Cruz were felicitated at the hands of the chief guest, Mr Pratapsing Rane.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Rane said, “We are lucky to have a wonderful auditorium at the behest of the late Mr Antonio de Figueiredo. Kala Academy is known all over India and we all want the academy to become the best in the country. To this end, we are joining hands with other universities.” He said further, “In this globalised world where the sky is the limit, if you have a passion for music, follow your heart.”
David Figueiredo, a violinist and the grandson of the founder of the Department of Western Music at Kala Academy spoke of his grandfather’s determination. “He lived up to conduct the greatest symphony orchestra. It was through his determination that the first institute of Western Music came about in Goa.”
This was followed by a musical rendition by Nathan Fernandes, Jency David, Ingrid de Noronha, Arnie do Rego, Melisa Sequeira, Caroline Nunes, Blaise Sequeira, Gisela Pereira and others.
The ensembles of guitar, cello and wind received great response from the audience.
While a cello solo was performed by Jenny Fernandes, a violin solo was played by Rhea D’Souza. A beautiful arrangement of the Goan Rhapsody for quartet by Franz Schubert Cotta with instruments like the viola, cello was wonderful to listen to watch.
Lastly, the acting director, department of Western Music, Ms Teresa Figueiredo conducted the Kala Academy String Ensemble.
The member secretary, Kala Academy, Mr Pandurang Phaldesai and the president of Parent’s Teachers Association of western music, Mr Ilidio Noronha were also in attendance.