When I first saw Migrant Voices groups perform, during the M1 Fringe Festival at The Esplanade in March this year, I was struck by the warmth and energy that everyone radiated. Just being there was like being part of a family. So when Jackie told me about the gig at Timbre, next to The Substation I was only too happy to be there. It was a great atmosphere, more so since Timbre also hosts other up-and-coming local groups, and that is really heartening.

The music was in Tamil and in Nepali - both languages I don't understand. But what went beyond words and touched me indelibly was the exuberance that the bands, Divine Sutra and Himalaya, radiated. I cheered and clapped along with everyone in the audience, and it was only out of "good behaviour" that I didn't get up and dance, though the rhythms were so tempting!

Music is certainly the biggest boundary-crosser. You may not understand even one word, but the beat, the tunes and the infectious joy more than makes up for it. When there is music, you feel a connection. And through music, you can say so much more than words can. This is the best possible way that transient workers can do both - express themselves, and connect with others.

I left the evening feeling happy that I had been there. And then a few days later, Jackie asked me if I would like to be the website editor. Well, I do have the skills and if I can put them to good use I think it's only right to do so. So I agreed... and here I am, woefully later than promised, writing the first piece.

Vidya Heble
Content Editor, Website
Migrant Voices