Stepping onto the grand stage of the California All-State Music Education Conference (CASMEC), Diamond Bar High School’s Proma Majumdar stole the spotlight with her exceptional talent and captivating presence.
Organized by the California Music Educators Association (CMEA), CASMEC stands as a hallmark event in California’s music education landscape. With high school and junior high musicians converging across the state, it provides a platform for musical growth and collaboration. The opportunity to learn from esteemed directors, collaborate with peers and immerse oneself in diverse musical experiences rendered CASMEC an amazing opportunity for Majumdar.
Surrounded by music at an early age, Proma developed an interest in singing through her 5th grade choir marking the beginning of her musical vocation. She was given the opportunity to choose between band and choir. Ultimately, she chose the latter and stuck with it ever since.
“I listened to music on my own as well as hearing music on long car drives or when my dad would be practicing music early mornings,” Majumdar said. “I’m not entirely sure why, but I was always singing as a child.”
Because of her passion for singing, her parents enrolled her in vocal lessons, focusing on Western and Indian classical vocal styles. All of those genres have only grown Majumdar’s love for singing and music, expanding both her interest and knowledge.
Majumdar auditioned for the regional level and then was invited to the state level based on her score. Since she knew her audition score at once after getting chosen for the regional honor choir, Majumdar felt as if she had a good chance of getting into the state level.
“However, I would say getting into the regional honor choir was definitely the initial surprise because it was my first time auditioning as a high schooler,” said Majumdar.
Preparation for CASMEC entailed rigorous, yet rewarding efforts. Leveraging online resources provided by the organizers, she diligently practiced her repertoire, overcoming challenges, such as the vocal range, with the guidance of her vocal coach. Given pieces in foreign languages such as Italian and Portuguese, Majumdar initially faced trouble with pronunciation, but luckily received help from a friend of the coach.
“The first day we received hard copies of our music and had to go take our part assessments,” said Majumdar.
These assessments, while daunting at the regional level, proved surprisingly less stressful at the state level, allowing participants like Majumdar to shift their focus toward honing and shaping the details.
Majumdar’s choir comprised approximately 90 talented individuals. Majumdar also emphasized the unique aspects of CASMEC that distinguish it from other choir events. Offering a broad range of music, it includes cappella literature and large choral works.
“This is definitely different from other choir events that I’ve been a part of because it meant traveling and actually meeting people all across the state,” Majumdar said.
Under the baton of esteemed guest director Dr. Dekaney from Syracuse University, participants delved into an intensive 9 A.M. to 9 P.M. Monday through Friday rehearsal schedule. Through endless days of practice, the choir culminated in a spectacular performance on Saturday.
“I really wanted this to be one of my most memorable experiences as a high school student who loves singing and choir,” said Majumdar. “I will definitely keep participating in this event.”
