The Maple Tree wins inter-school rock contest Melomania

DIMAPUR — Hope Academy held the 5th edition of its annual inter-school rock beat contest, Melomania, on October 21 at Hope Academy campus, Chümoukedima, with pastor Robert Kikon of Father House Church invoking God’s blessing to begin the event. 

According to a press release, The Maple Tree won the coveted title of best band and walked away with a cash prize of INR 50,000, while Hope Maverick came in second place and received a cash prize of INR 30,000. 

Asangla Oungh of Hope Maverick was named the best vocalist, Wungrito of Hope Academy was named the best drummer, Limachen Jamir of The Maple Tree was named the best bassist, and Symon Neikha of The Maple Tree was named the best guitarist.

The bands competing in the competition were from Hollotoli School, Maple Tree School, MGM Higher Secondary School, Holy Cross Higher Secondary School, and two from the host school, Hope Academy. 

In her welcome address, Sashila Ozukum, principal of Hope Academy, emphasised that, in addition to music, Melomania is a platform to instill discipline, teamwork, confidence, and leadership qualities in students while also building closeness across different schools.

Alobo Naga attended the event as the guest of honour, along with Dreams and Wishes, a metal band from Nagaland, to adjudicate the contest. Dreams and Wishes also enthralled the audience with three original songs. 

In his speech, Alobo Naga expressed concern that, while Nagaland has many talents, they lack professionalism and work ethics. He encouraged the students in attendance to strive for excellence and to value preparedness and punctuality.

In order to provide school students with a platform to showcase their musical talents, Melomania was started in the year 2019. 

Also read: Kohima Institute of Music to organise ‘Go-to Fest’ on October 23