Shillong, Nov 11: The Cathedral Band Laitumkhrah — one of Meghalaya’s oldest and most cherished marching bands — continues to captivate the faithful during major Catholic celebrations, carrying forward a musical legacy that began over a century ago. Its melodies, echoing through the streets during events like the Laitumkhrah Eucharistic Procession, remain a powerful symbol of devotion, tradition, and community.

With its brass instruments and resounding drums, the band’s music uplifts and inspires, filling the air with reverence during solemn church ceremonies. Belonging to the Laitumkhrah Parish under the Shillong Archdiocese, the band’s members span multiple generations — some who have passed on, and others who continue to serve with unwavering dedication.

A New Era: Women Musicians Join the March

In recent years, the Cathedral Band has embraced a significant transformation with the inclusion of young women performers. Under the leadership of President Mr. Raphael Jarain and Mr. Eddie Mukhim, the band has opened its doors to form an All-Girl Band, a historic step that reflects changing times and evolving roles within the community.

During the grand procession held on November 9, the sight of young men and women marching in perfect rhythm drew admiration from the thousands gathered to celebrate the Shillong Archdiocese’s special occasion.

The Archdiocese is home to several renowned church bands, including the Don Bosco Band and the Savio Juniorate Band, but the Cathedral Band holds a special place as one of the oldest and most influential.

A Century of History and Resilience

According to Br. John Colombi, an Italian missionary and a long-serving member of the band, the Cathedral Band was founded in 1908 by Rev. Herribert Winkler and Rev. Fruman Tius Stagmiller, who brought brass instruments from Germany.

However, history disrupted its journey. When World War I broke out, German missionaries were forced to return home, and the band was entrusted to Rudolph Ruton, a former military band leader. Leadership then passed to Petrus Nongrum until 1922 before the Salesian missionaries of Don Bosco School assumed responsibility.

In 1932, Fr. Igino Recaldone revitalised the band by improving its structure and importing new instruments from Paris.

The band endured another setback during World War II, but survived under the guidance of Jang Bahadur and Himaldhoj Lama, both retired soldiers of the Gorkha Regiment.

The Legacy of Br. Santino Mantarro

A turning point came in 1946, when Br. Santino Mantarro, fondly remembered as “the father of the Cathedral Band,” took charge. He renamed it the Parish Band, imported fresh instruments from Italy, and encouraged Khasi youth across urban and rural areas to learn and participate.

“Brother Mantarro breathed new life into the band after the hardships of the two World Wars,” recalled Br. Colombi, who served with the band from 1974 to 1996.

In 1959, the band was renamed The Cathedral Band, and the first official uniform — two full sets — was introduced for ceremonies and regular parades.

Growth, Expansion, and Continued Service

After Br. Mantarro’s death in 1971, leadership passed to Br. Castellino Fernandez, who expanded opportunities by forming the Oratory Band, including both men and women musicians. He was followed by Mr. Alban R. Suting, and later by Br. Colombi, who continued training and strengthening the band.

The Cathedral Band also adopted its own Constitution in March 1969, bearing the Latin motto “Omnia Vincit Labor” — “Hard work conquers all.”

Over the decades, the band has performed across Northeast India — Kohima, Dibrugarh, Tezpur and beyond — marking jubilees, church celebrations, and historical events. On October 4, 1969, the band famously performed during the ceremonial welcome of Archbishop Hubert D’Rosario from Mawlai Gate to Laitumkhrah.

Revival After the Pandemic

Following the long pause caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the band reunited during Holy Week training sessions at Bianchi Hall within the Cathedral premises. The sound of brass instruments once again echoed across Laitumkhrah, reviving a tradition deeply cherished by parishioners.

A Living Symbol of Faith

With over 30 members today, the Cathedral Band remains one of the most respected marching bands in Meghalaya and the Northeast. Its musicians come from all walks of life but are united by a shared passion for music, faith, and service.

A century later, the Cathedral Band stands as a living symbol of devotion, hope, and continuity — its harmonies bridging generations, honouring tradition, and embracing the new spirit brought by women and young musicians.