‘A Sound of Angels’ Revives Goa’s Lenten Motet Tradition in Margao

Margao, Goa, March 3, 2026: In an atmosphere steeped in devotion and harmony, the Pilar Music Academy, under the auspices of the Society of Pilar, presented ‘A Sound of Angels’, an evening dedicated to traditional Lenten motet singing, at Ravindra Bhavan on March 2. The programme drew an appreciative audience and marked a significant step in reviving Goa’s cherished heritage of sacred Lenten music.

Ten prominent choir groups from across Goa participated in the musical offering, rendering traditional Lenten motets—devotional compositions that once held a central place in parish life during the penitential season. The gathering reflected a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting this sacred musical legacy for future generations.

The evening opened with a special Lenten presentation by the staff of the academy, who performed ‘Nixttur Monzati’, arranged and set to music by Fr Peter Cardoso, SFX. The solemn and contemplative tone set the stage for the subsequent performances.

Motets, which evolved in Europe during the medieval and Baroque periods, were shaped by composers such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina. In Goa, the tradition acquired a distinctive character from the 19th century onwards, blending Western classical structure with local devotional expression. Traditionally sung during Santos Passos and the Sacred Triduum—Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday—Goan motets are known for their solemn melodies and meditative repetitions that foster deep interior reflection.

Rendered in Soprano, Alto, Tenor and Bass harmonies and supported by classical instruments, the performances reflected discipline, reverence and musical finesse. While the evening remained primarily a prayerful offering, three choirs were specially appreciated for their excellence and dedication to preserving the tradition: Savourites of Loutolim led by Seby Fernandes; St Joseph’s Parish Choir, Dramapur led by Sebastiao Soares; and The Golden Voices Choir led by Selwyn J. C. Braganza. The other participating groups were also honoured with certificates and mementos in recognition of their contribution.

Fr Lino de Sá, whose efforts have been instrumental in safeguarding this sacred musical heritage, graced the occasion as Chief Guest. Fr Steevan D’Souza, SFX, Vicar General of the Society of Pilar, was the Guest of Honour. Welcoming the gathering, Fr Joaquim Rebello, SFX, Provincial Superior of the Goa Province, reminded participants that the evening was not about rivalry but about offering God-given talents for His glory.

Fr Myron Sequeira, SFX, Director of the Pilar Music Academy, expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event. Ashley Fernandes compered the programme, while Fr Joe Rodrigues, Minguel Cota and Telma Costa Gracias served as music evaluators.

The evening concluded on a deeply reflective note, leaving the audience spiritually uplifted and with a renewed appreciation for Goa’s enduring sacred musical heritage. More than a concert, ‘A Sound of Angels’ became a prayerful journey into the heart of Lent.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD

Image credits: Ryan Dsouza