First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney with Bethel Tsuzu from Nagaland at Showcase Scotland 2025.
Kohima, February 26 (MExN): Task Force for Music & Arts (TaFMA) today announced the participation of Bethel Tsuzu, a Naga musician and artist, as an ambassador and delegate at Showcase Scotland 2025. The music industry event is held in Glasgow as part of Celtic Connections 2025.
Bethel Tsuzu, a renowned pianist, vocalist and music educator, has made significant contributions to the musical landscape of Nagaland. Her career spans performance, pedagogy, and entrepreneurship, showcasing her dedication to the arts.
She is the Director of Mountain Music Academy and the Artistic Director of Bright Lights Children's Choir under TaFMA. Her accolades include the Young Musicians Award, the Edgar Fewkes Memorial Trophy, and the Governor's Award in Nagaland.
As the sole representative from India at Showcase Scotland, Bethel Tsuzu joined 171 delegates from over 23 nations. “The level of professional exchange, the friendships, and the incredible connections made with people from around the world in just six days is tremendous,” shared Tsuzu upon her return. “It was a week of intensive and powerful networking. I witnessed Scotland’s finest artists and musicians from the folk, roots, and traditional genres,” she said.
With over 300 events spread across Glasgow, every hour and every minute was dedicated to networking and concerts. Showcase Scotland attracts leading professionals, including promoters, record labels, agents, and festival organizers, offering delegates invaluable opportunities for collaboration and career advancement.
Bethel Tsuzu's participation underscores TaFMA's commitment to promoting Naga talent on the international stage. “I was fortunate and blessed to represent our state, Nagaland, and the country, India, as a whole,” Bethel added.
She emphasised the importance of celebrating and respecting the art and culture of other countries for mutual growth and expressed hope that her experience will lead to international collaborations and innovative ideas for the Naga music community, according to TaFMA.
“I hope that my takeaways will not only be mine but will benefit our people, and that it will translate into international collaborations and ideas in the months and years to come,” she said.
This initiative builds upon previous cultural exchange programmes, including Wales' participation as a country partner in the 25th edition of the Hornbill Festival Nagaland.
