Fri Dec 27 09:52:41 UTC 2024: ## Delhi’s Capital City Minstrels Celebrate 30 Years of Harmony
**NEW DELHI, December 27, 2024** – Delhi’s Capital City Minstrels (CCM), a premier performing choir, celebrated its 30th anniversary with a spectacular concert, “Echoes of Alleluia.” The December performance featured a diverse repertoire showcasing the choir’s eclectic musical journey over the past three decades.
Founded in 1994 by Zohra Shaw, the choir initially comprised a dozen singers practicing Christmas carols. It has since grown to approximately 70 members, aged 16 to 89, representing various professions from medicine and law to music and diplomacy. The group’s commitment to music is entirely voluntary, driven by a shared passion.
Under the current direction of international Yamaha artist Nise Meruno, who joined as a singer 20 years ago, the CCM has performed over 400 shows across India and internationally. Their repertoire spans a wide range of genres, including Western classical, Gospel, opera, jazz, folk, and Indian music, performed in over 20 languages. The choir has collaborated with renowned international groups such as Le Beau Soleil (Switzerland) and the Yale Schola Cantorum.
The CCM’s inclusive approach, welcoming members with varying levels of musical experience (auditions are required), is a key factor in its longevity and success. Members like Pallav Bonerjee and his wife, both clinical psychologists, joined seeking a creative outlet, highlighting the choir’s appeal beyond professional musicians. Retired social development professional Annie Sinha, a former CCM president, emphasized the strong camaraderie within the group, noting that rehearsals often begin with a shared tea time.
The choir typically stages two annual concerts in Delhi and actively engages in workshops and outreach programs for underprivileged children. Their 30th-anniversary concert served as a testament to their enduring dedication to music and their significant contribution to Delhi’s cultural landscape.
First Piper 