The 36th Children’s Christmas Cake Carol Competition, themed “Echoes of Joy” and organized by the Youth Department of Mokokchung Town Baptist Arogo (MTBA) saw an enthusiastic turnout of 815 participants from 10 youth fellowships under MTBA.
Among the 10 fellowships, the first position went to Aongza Youth Fellowship, whose 75 participants performed their original song “Oh Arung Aseni” – securing the title for the second time in three years. Alongmen & Dilong (A&D) Fellowship, with 130 children delivering their original composition “Tepela Khristmas,” secured second place. Penli Youth Fellowship claimed third place with 60 participants, presenting their original composition “Aongmetang Khristmas Ola.”
Asenla Longchar, Music Coordinator, ABAM, who served as a judge, highlighted the standout qualities of the performances. “For the winners, it was their lyrics, their confidence on stage, their warmth, and the ability to project that enthusiasm which made them secure the top spots,” she said.
The competition criteria emphasized multiple elements, including rhythmic interpretation: singing and choreographic synchronicity with live music and tempo consistency, the ability to project warmth and enthusiasm, confidence, and stage presence. Costume design, broadcast invitations, and timbre/tonality – including intonation, tone color, and consistent tuning – were also key factors. The lyrical aspect, focusing on diction, clarity, lingual flexibility, mastery of lyrics, and the song’s character (such as personification and mood), was thoroughly evaluated.
A noteworthy trend observed over the years was the rise of original compositions. However, it may be noted that this trend is not a new one but rather a consistent feature of the competition. Out of 10 entries, 8 songs were original, namely: Echoes of Joy by Salangtem, Oh Arung Aseni by Aongza, Joyous Christmas by Medical, Tepela Khristmas by A&D, Golden Sun by Tongdentsuyong, Koda Sentsuwangshi by Kichutip, Anthem of Joy by UCYF, and Aongmetang Khristmas Ola by Penli.
Another significant development has been the increasing inclusion of sign language in performances, which was warmly received by the audience, promoting greater inclusivity and ensuring that participants with hearing impairments could fully engage with the competition.
However, practical concerns such as the need for seating arrangements particularly for the young participants were expressed by some. “After 36 years, it is imperative we provide seating for the young children, especially since they are made to endure long hours” noted Dr Nungshi Tzudir, a regular attendee.
(The reporter is an intern with Mokokchung Times)