When the all-women’s choir Mirai took to the stage at London’s prestigious Cadogan Hall, it wasn’t just a performance, it was a milestone. Having only formed in April 2024, Mirai is barely a year old, yet it’s already carving out a unique space.
Founded and directed by Sharmila Livingston, a seasoned music professional with more than three decades of experience in Delhi, the group’s London debut was part of an international choral residency, organised by Vox Anima, that brought together over 130 singers from across the world. The event featured renowned Norwegian-American choral composer Ola Gjeilo, who accompanied the ensemble on the piano, while his wife conducted the sessions—an irresistible opportunity for Livingston and her students.
“We haven’t had much exposure yet, not in India and certainly not abroad,” Sharmila said. “Our first performances were in December in India, and this London experience has been nothing short of amazing for all of us.”
The residency provided a rare platform for the group where ten members from Mirai joined singers from different countries, cultures, and vocal backgrounds to create music as one unified choir. “I asked several of my singers what their favourite part of this trip was, and they all said the rehearsals and the performance,” Sharmila shared with a smile. “They’ve only ever worked with me as a conductor, so being exposed to a new conductor, a new venue, and a different repertoire was incredibly enriching.”
Sharmila has long been a central figure in Delhi’s limited choral landscape; performing as a soloist, conducting other choirs, and training voices through her own studio. While Mirai might be new, its formation was years in the making. About forming an all-female group that spans generations, she said, “Delhi doesn’t have the infrastructure to support age-specific choirs. So we brought everyone together, young and old, under one roof, united by their passion and commitment to choral music.”
That intergenerational aspect is one of Mirai’s strengths. “The singers enjoy learning from one another. They have a common goal: to grow musically. And that sense of purpose transcends age.”
Being in London gave the group a fresh perspective. While Sharmila acknowledges the universal challenges faced by the art, including limited trained music professionals, she said the experience of singing alongside more experienced mixed voices - male and female - from different cultural contexts was powerful. “It was very different for our girls. We currently sing with only women’s voices, which is a valid form in itself, known as a Treble or SSAA (Soprano-Soprano-Alto-Alto) choir.”
Looking forward, Sharmila has clear ambitions for Mirai. “I want to keep exposing my singers to varied styles and platforms. But the fit has to be right—something that ignites their interest and helps them grow.”
The London performance was not just a testament to their hard work and talent, but also to the support they've received back home. Sharmila was quick to acknowledge FabIndia and the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art, both of whom supported Mirai’s journey in different capacities.
With its London debut behind them, Mirai is ready to soar higher. “This is just the beginning,” said Sharmila. “And I’m so thankful to all the incredible women in this group who are committed to growing and perfecting their craft.”
For a choir whose name means “future,” Mirai is already sounding like a harmonious promise of what’s to come.
