“The stage was not just a platform for competition, but a canvas for expression.”- Anonymous
On 30th August 2025, the halls of Astaranga Auditorium at SAI International Residential School resonated with soulful melodies as the much-awaited Inter House Solo Singing Competition unfolded. The event was a vibrant celebration of music, talent, and cultural expression, bringing together young voices from Classes IV to XII in a spirited display of artistic brilliance.
The competition was thoughtfully divided into three categories – Classes IV–VI, VII–IX, and X–XII – ensuring that every budding singer found a stage to shine. Students performed an eclectic mix of Classical, Semi-Classical, Patriotic, Devotional, and Inspirational songs, each rendition carrying its own depth and emotion. Adding to the charm, participants appeared in thematic costumes, complementing their performances while strictly adhering to the five-minute time frame.
The evening was graced by a distinguished panel of judges:
# Mr. Ritisnigdha Panda (M.Mus., Utkal University of Culture) – an eminent vocalist, stage performer, and Music Teacher at SAI Angan, with over 20 years of teaching experience.
# Mr. Balakrishna Jena (M.Mus., Utkal University of Culture) – a gifted vocalist, keyboardist, and singer, also a veteran teacher at SAI Angan with more than two decades of expertise.
Judgment was based on carefully chosen parameters – Pitch/Swar Sense, Rhythm Sense, Co-ordination with Music, and Improvisation – ensuring fairness and precision in evaluating the performances.
Every performance was more than just a display of vocal skill; it was a reflection of passion, dedication, and confidence. The audience was captivated by the soulful voices, while the judges lauded the students’ ability to blend discipline with creativity.
The competition was not merely about winning or losing; it was about celebrating the universal language of music that unites hearts and cultures. It provided a nurturing platform for students to hone their craft, embrace cultural richness, and gain the confidence to perform before an audience – lessons that will resonate far beyond the auditorium.
In its essence, the event beautifully echoed the school’s vision of encouraging young talent and fostering holistic growth through arts and culture. The Inter House Solo Singing Competition at SIRS truly stood as a testament to the power of music to inspire, uplift, and connect.
