Lipokmar Tzudir, choral conductors and music educators, and founder of Nagaland Conservatory of Music.
Vishü Rita Krocha
Kohima | November 4
Representing not just a personal journey, but the growth of a collective dream- “to nurture a culture of disciplined artistry and heartfelt expression”, the Nagaland Conservatory of Music (NCM) marked a significant milestone this year in its constant pursuit for musical excellence.
Founded by one of India’s most accomplished choral conductors and music educators, Lipokmar Tzudir, the Nagaland Conservatory of Music has grown into a premier centre for higher music learning since its inception in the year 2012, and is also now affiliated with Nagaland University, a Central University established by an Act of Parliament.
Even as the Nagaland Conservatory of Music celebrated 25 years, Maestro Lipokmar Tzudir related to The Morung Express that, “while the stage has always been a space of joy and creativity, I find even greater meaning in the classroom, where each student becomes a vessel of potential and promise.”
It was this very vision that led Lipokmar Tzudir to choose education over personal fame even as he stated strong belief that, “the true legacy of an artist lies not in applause, but in the lives they inspire.”
Tzudir’s professional career spans over two decades of remarkable achievements beginning with his conducting journey from 2000 to 2002 at the United Evangelical Church of Balintawak, Quezon City in Philippines followed by his tenure as Music Director of the International Evangelical Church of Alabang, Philippines.
Upon his return to India, he founded the Mokokchung Chancel Choir, which performed widely across the country, and also received public appreciation for their choral artistry.
He went on to serve as Music Director of the Holme Valley Singers in Yorkshire, United Kingdom, leading them through numerous highly acclaimed concerts.
Tzudir later taught at Patkai Christian College, conducting the Patkai Chorale, after which, he formed the Nagaland Singing Ambassadors, a choir that toured extensively throughout India.
In 2012, with the formation of the Nagaland Conservatory of Music, he has trained and mentored a new generation of musicians and conductors.
Not surprisingly, his choirs have represented India on multiple international platforms across America. Europe, and Asia, and have collaborated with esteemed Organizations such as the Scandinavian Kulturmix in Norway.
For his contribution to music, Lipokmar Tzudir was also recognised with the prestigious Sangeet Natak Akademi’s Ustad, Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar (2006) and the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Music (2010).
From 2013 to 2016, he also served as Director of the North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, where he played a pivotal role in promoting and preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage.
‘Keeping the transformative power of music alive for generations to come’
Even as Lipokmar Tzudir has dedicated his life to nurturing and empowering young musicians , he felt that completing 25 years as a performer and teacher is both a humbling and fulfilling milestone.
“I feel a deep sense of gratitude to students, colleagues, audiences, and the community that has embraced our vision for music education”, he expressed in this regard.
Stating that he looks forward with renewed passion, he also exuded hope “to continue shaping young musicians, fostering excellence, and keeping the transformative power of music alive for generations to come.”
“My dream is to build a state-of-the-art performance centre at the Nagaland Conservatory of Music campus—a space that will serve as a beacon of artistic excellence and cultural exchange”, he added.
This centre, he further envisioned, would not only provide world-class facilities for concerts, recitals, and creative collaborations but also inspire and nurture the next generation of musicians.
“It will stand as a testament to the transformative power of music education and my lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for young artists to learn, perform, and share their talents with the world”, he affirmed.
Reiterating that his true passion lies in teaching and training others, he also highlighted that, “while competitions may bring recognition and applause, I find deeper fulfillment in guiding students, nurturing their talents, and helping them discover their own artistic voices.”
In this regard, he also underscored that, “music is not about winning but about growth, discipline, and expression — values best cultivated through education.”
“By dedicating myself to teaching, I believe I can make a lasting impact, shaping future generations of musicians who will carry forward the spirit and excellence of music”, he further put across.
In celebration of 25 years of Choral Leadership of Maestro Lipokmar Tzudir, the Nagaland Conservatory of Music also presented “Echoes of Time” featuring the Choir conducted by him and with a special appearance by Gianmarco Puglisi on October 28 and 31 at Dimapur and Kohima respectively.
