By Martin D’Souza | Opening Doorz Editorial | January 24, 2024
On January 30, 2024, Bonaventure D’Souza, the ‘Piano Man’, the maestro behind the legendary band ‘The Bonaventures’, will celebrate his 70th birthday.
From the humble beginnings of ‘The Bonaventures’ which started in the year 1974, financed by the generous support of Mr. and Mrs. Governor, to the heights of success achieved with the addition of Walter Pereira (India’s Tom Jones) in 1985, Bonaventure has had a remarkable musical career. It was the ‘dance till you drop’ days when the Band began. Within twenty years, the time restrictions for music came into place. With the restrictions in time, the ‘live’ Band scene in Mumbai began to wane. But Bonnie, as he is famously known, found ways to keep his fingers moving on the Ebony and Ivory.
Bonaventure D’Souza: 50 Years of Music Memories
On Saturday, January 27, he will begin the celebrations with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at Our Lady of Egypt Church, Kalina, at 7 pm. Fr. Godfrey D’Souza, his friend and colleague from Don Bosco, Lonavala, the school where he began his musical journey, will celebrate the Eucharist along with Bonnie’s classmates Fr. George Athiade and Fr. Raymond Lisbo, family friend Fr Clifton Lobo and Parish Priest Fr Rui Comelo.
This will be followed by a special ‘Bonaventures’ musical show with his musician friends joining him on stage at the Church Community Hall. It’s a Hawain Theme: The guests have been requested to wear clothing with floral motifs.
As a young boarder, who had joined the Apostolate in Lonavala, wanting to be a Priest one day, Bonnie fell in love with music. Bonnie has fond memories of his days in Don Bosco. The fact that he fell in love with music there makes it even more special. “I learnt to play the piano and keyboard here. I got a lot of support from the priests, especially Fr. Michael Mascarenhas who ensured I gave all the exams.”
Bonaventure D’Souza may have retired from Mazagaon Docks, building ships for the Navy. But where music is concerned, the 70-year-old is still rocking.
Excerpts:
Can you share some memorable moments from the early days of ‘The Bonaventures’ and how it all began?
It all started with a dream and a chance encounter with the late Parsi couple, Mr. and Mrs. Governor. We were looking for a keyboard, and while they weren’t initially convinced, they were impressed by my piano playing and Brian Augustine’s vocals. To our surprise, they offered to finance the entire band, including instruments and uniforms. It was a moment of pure joy and disbelief. They believed in us even before we believed in ourselves, and we never forgot their generosity. We paid them back within a few years but continued to support them until their last days. Mr. Governor even gifted me a beautiful piano before he passed away. He was a man with a golden heart, and his belief in our music fuelled our initial journey.
How did the band choose the name ‘The Bonaventures’, and what significance does it hold in representing your musical journey?
Since I started the band, the boys decided to honor me by naming it ‘The Bonaventures’. It’s a name that carries my passion and dedication. It’s not just a band name; it’s a symbol of our musical journey, our shared dream that became a reality. Looking back, for me, ‘The Bonaventures’ is a constant reminder of the countless hours spent rehearsing, the late nights playing gigs, and the immense satisfaction of bringing joy to people through music.
How did the addition of Walter Pereira, aka ‘Tom Jones’, in 1985, influence the band’s musical direction, and what impact did he have on the ‘live’ music entertainment scene?
Walter, with his incredible talent and charisma, was a game-changer. He brought a new energy and direction to the band, pushing us towards a more dynamic and versatile sound. People loved his renditions of Tom Jones classics, and his stage presence was simply electrifying. Together, we became a force to be reckoned with, often booked a year in advance for weddings and events. Walter helped elevate the entire ‘live’ music scene in the city.
What were some of the most memorable performances or events that stood out during the band’s prime?
We had the privilege of playing at some of the most prestigious venues, from five-star hotels to grand weddings and corporate functions. Our Christmas and New Year shows at Bandra Gym and Willingdon Catholic Gymkhana were legendary, drawing crowds from all corners of the city. We particularly cherished playing for Parsi weddings and Navjotes, where the energy and joy were truly infectious. Every performance was unique. Wherever we performed, we connected with the audience.
What are your views on the changes in the ‘live’ music industry over the past four decades, especially the transition from ‘live’ bands at weddings to the dominance of DJs today?
The music industry has undoubtedly undergone a sea change in the past five decades. The rise of DJs has challenged the traditional role of ‘live’ bands, particularly at weddings. While I understand the convenience and cost-effectiveness that DJs offer, there’s something irreplaceable about the energy and spontaneity of a ‘live’ performance. The interaction between the musicians and the audience; the raw emotion pouring out of every note—that’s an experience that no DJ can replicate. However, I believe there’s always room for both forms of entertainment to coexist. Ultimately, it’s about the audience’s preference.
What are your thoughts on the future of ‘live’ music, and do you see any hope for a revival of bands like ‘The Bonaventures’ in today’s digital age?
The future of ‘live’ music is uncertain, but I believe it will always hold a special place in people’s hearts. There’s a magic to ‘live’ performances that no technology can replicate. The raw energy, the connection between the musicians and the audience—these are things that will never go out of style. As for bands like ‘The Bonaventures’, I believe there will always be a demand for high-quality ‘live’ music, especially for events like weddings and corporate functions. It’s all about finding the right audience and providing them with an experience they won’t forget.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians today who dream of making it big someday?
My advice to young musicians is simple: never give up on your dream. Practice hard, hone your skills, and most importantly, be passionate about your music. Let your love for music shine through in everything you do, and the rest will follow. Find good mentors, collaborate with other musicians, and always be open to learning and growing. Every industry is tough, more so the music industry. However, with dedication and perseverance, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Bonnie’s ringtone on his cell phone is ‘Piano Man’ by Billy Joel.
The lyrics go thus: “He says, ‘Son can you play me a memory? I’m not really sure how it goes. But it’s sad and it’s sweet and I knew it complete. When I wore a younger man’s clothes.”
If you are one of the special invitees for the performance by ‘The Bonaventures’, I’m sure you will reminisce about the times gone by.
Happy 70th birthday, Bonaventure! May your tribe increase.
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