O’Slando D’Souza, a name synonymous with Goan folk music, has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Goa. His journey from a small village in Goa to becoming a celebrated folk singer and musician is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for preserving and promoting Goan music. This feature delves into the life, music, recordings, fame, and legacy of O’Slando D’Souza, capturing the essence of his contributions to Goan folk music.
Early Life and Origins
O’Slando D’Souza was born in 1930 in Abadan, a city in the Persian Gulf, where his father, Franklin de Souza, was employed in an oil company. His mother, Flory nee de Mello, hailed from the hamlet of Arrarim in south Saligão, Goa. When O’Slando was just a year old, his family moved back to Saligão, where he spent his formative years.
Growing up in Saligão, O’Slando was immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Goa. He attended the Mater Dei English-medium school, a century-old educational institution, after completing his mandatory Portuguese schooling in the village aula (primary school). Following the tradition of Goan Catholic boys, O’Slando began learning the violin during his summer holidays at the village parochial school. His first violin tutor was the school mistir (music teacher), who introduced him to music notations and laid the foundation for his musical journey.
Musical Journey and Career
After completing his schooling in Goa, O’Slando moved to Bombay (now Mumbai) to pursue higher education at St. Xavier’s College. However, he opted out of college to take up a job in a multinational firm. Despite not formally studying music, O’Slando’s proficiency in sight-reading music notations drew him to various church and secular choirs in Bombay. He joined the Madrigals Choir, directed by the renowned Victor Paranjoti, a prominent conductor of Western music in the city.
O’Slando’s grounding in the violin attracted him to various classical instrumental orchestras in Bombay. In his younger days, the violin was his favorite musical instrument until the guitar became popular during the Beatles Era in the 1960s. He self-learned the guitar and soon began teaching others, which helped him understand music harmony and make musical arrangements for four voices. He eventually led his own English choral groups, showcasing his versatility as a musician.
Contributions to Goan Folk Music
O’Slando D’Souza’s contributions to Goan folk music are immense. He produced several albums of Goan (Konkani) folk and Portuguese music, performed on All India Radio and television, and authored a book focusing on Christian Goan Konkani Folk and Art Songs. His work encapsulates the history of Christian Goan Folk Music and explains the origins of various traditional Goan music forms, such as dulpods, dekhnis, and the Mando.
Albums and Recordings
O’Slando’s albums are a treasure trove of Goan folk music. His recordings include traditional Goan songs, Portuguese fados, and original compositions that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Goa. Some of his notable albums include “Poilo Paus” (The First Rains), which features a collection of Goan folk songs that celebrate the monsoon season, a significant time in Goan culture.
His music is characterized by its melodic richness, intricate harmonies, and the seamless blending of Western and Indian musical elements. O’Slando’s ability to capture the essence of Goan folk music while infusing it with his unique style has earned him a dedicated following among music enthusiasts.
Performances and Fame
O’Slando’s performances on All India Radio and television brought Goan folk music to a wider audience. His melodious voice, coupled with his mastery of the violin and guitar, made him a sought-after performer at various cultural events and festivals. He was known for his ability to connect with his audience, creating an immersive musical experience that left a lasting impression.
O’Slando’s fame extended beyond Goa, as he performed at various national and international events, showcasing the beauty of Goan folk music to the world. His contributions to preserving and promoting Goan music earned him recognition and accolades from various cultural organizations and institutions.
Literary Contributions
In addition to his musical achievements, O’Slando D’Souza made significant contributions to the literary world. His book, “The Goan Konkani Folk and Art Songs,” is considered a seminal work in understanding Goan music. The 336-page book includes the lyrics, score, and background information of many popular traditional folk and art songs from Goa. It provides a comprehensive overview of the history and evolution of Goan folk music, making it accessible to both musicians and music enthusiasts.
The book delves into the origins of various Goan music forms, such as the Mando, a slow verse-and-refrain composition dealing with love, tragedy, and contemporary events. It also explores the dulpods and dekhnis, which are integral to Goan folk music. O’Slando’s meticulous research and deep understanding of Goan music are evident in the detailed explanations and musical notations provided in the book.
Legacy and Death
O’Slando D’Souza’s legacy as a pioneer of Goan folk music continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers. His dedication to preserving and promoting Goan music has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Goa. His work serves as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the rich musical heritage of Goa is passed down to future generations.
O’Slando passed away on February 21, 2016, at the age of 85 in Mumbai. His death marked the end of an era, but his music and contributions continue to live on. He is remembered not only for his musical talent but also for his passion for preserving the cultural heritage of Goa.
Conclusion
O’Slando D’Souza’s journey from a small village in Goa to becoming a celebrated folk singer and musician is a testament to his talent, dedication, and passion for Goan music. His contributions to preserving and promoting Goan folk music have left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Goa. Through his albums, performances, and literary works, O’Slando has ensured that the rich musical heritage of Goa continues to thrive.
As we celebrate the life and legacy of O’Slando D’Souza, we are reminded of the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people. His work serves as an inspiration to musicians and music lovers, encouraging them to explore and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Goa. O’Slando D’Souza’s melodious voice and timeless music will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who cherish the beauty of Goan folk music.
