Josinho D'Souza (; né Souza; 15 July 1941 – 8 May 2017), known professionally as Maestro Josinho, was an Indian saxophonist and playwright who worked on the Tiatr. Described by The Navhind Times as a leading saxophonist in tiatrs, D'Souza is regarded as one of the stalwarts of the Konkani language stage. Throughout his career spanning over five decades, his music has been featured in approximately 3000 tiatrs and 250 audio cassettes.
D'Souza held the position of choirmaster at the St Roque Church in Tollecanto. During the golden phase of tiatr (1961–1970s), he played a pivotal role in establishing the AVC Pops, a prominent big band. The band's repertoire prominently featured the trumpet and saxophone.
The St Roque Church, in its earlier form, featured an architectural ensemble that included a portico and a baptistry that also served as a reconciliation chapel. This space was utilized as an educational institution, offering instruction in various disciplines such as language, music, and entrepreneurship. The administration of this educational endeavor was entrusted to D'Souza along with Father Teles, from the Handmaids of Christ, as well as instructors named Nicholau, and Abraham.
D'Souza's involvement in the tiatr industry extended beyond live musical performances. He also made contributions in the design and operation of background music for various tiatrs. Some of the tiatrs in which he showcased his musical talents include " Patok" (Sin), " Ghatki Bhoinn" (Traitor Sister), " Sucorina", " Duddu ani Ginean" (Money and Sense), " Sonvsarant Astana Diat", and " Ostori" (Woman). Furthermore, he lent his musical expertise to approximately 230 audio cassettes. Beyond his work as a musician, D'Souza also made contributions as a playwright, having written three tiatrs: " Mai Paiche Dekhik Lagon", " Angovnnecho Put", and " Toddoki Pai".
D'Souza released his album titled "Mhozo Anvddo". The album consisted of a collection of six instrumental tracks and six Konkani language songs. Within the instrumental tracks, Goan music was prominently featured, particularly in the final piece, which incorporated a medley of dekhnni and other Goan folk songs. The titular song, performed by D'Souza himself, expressed his yearning for Goan youth to embrace music education, with a specific emphasis on wind instruments. During that era, there were only a limited number of young musicians proficient in . Additionally, D'Souza contributed his musical talents to the albums "Ek Uzvadd Tum" and "Tum Ani Hanv Mellonk".
D'Souza, during an interview in Bombay (now Mumbai), crossed paths with Domingos Santano Rodrigues, professionally known as Dominic de Arambol, when he made his journey back to Goa from Bombay in 1989 after the passing of his father. The interview brought together approximately 72 musicians from various parts of India for an audition. Out of this group, only 13 individuals, including Rodrigues, were chosen for further opportunities.
In subsequent years, D'Souza and Rodrigues collaborated on numerous musical performances, making contributions to the field of music. Their combined efforts resulted in the creation of nearly 250 audio cassettes. However, the duo eventually decided to go their separate ways. Rodrigues then joined Menino de Bandar's troupe, where he performed for a decade. Subsequently, he became a member of Prince Jacob's troupe, where he showcased his talent for 10 years and 4 months.
|
|