THE PLUS

ISSU E #17 APR 202 1

www.igenplus.com Introduction Hello, young readers!

We are thrilled to welcome you on another learning expedition with the ‘Music’ edition of ‘The Plus’. This month, we are looking at the cultural evolution of music and its significance as a human experience.

From enabling creative expression to strengthening social bonds, music is tied to education and learning in intricate and expansive ways. In this issue, you will get familiar with the concepts of musical vibrations, the melodic framework of the Indian and sargam. You will find captivating stories of traditional instruments, the maestros who took Indian music global, and the emotions Hellen Keller felt after “hearing” music for the first time. You will also catch an inside look into some innovative musical enterprises and gain insights into building a career in music.

We will be back with another issue next month. Meanwhile, we would love to hear from you. Your suggestions, ideas, and feedback - all are welcome. This magazine is an effort by IGenPlus to reach you, so be rest assured that we are here for you! Letter from the CEO p 3

Concept Note p 4

The Beauty of & Swaras p 5

The Evolution of Music p 7

In Conversation With p 9

From the Reader’s Pen p 12

Melodies of the Mind-Body-Soul p 13

In Tune with the Divine p 14

Saar: Ancient Wisdom p 16

Traditional Indian Instruments p 17

Games Corner p 19

Musical Trail p 21

Ghatam: Plugging into the Cadence Inside Us p 25

Taking Indian Music Global p 27

The Role of Music in Adolescence p 29

Inside a Musical Enterprise p 31

Career Insights p 33

This Day, That Year p 35

Teenspiration p 36 SAI SHRAVANAM Indian music producer, recording and scoring engineer GIRIDHAR UDUPA Letters of the Past p 37 Indian percussionist DIVIJ Thank Us Later! Teen music artist p 39 On a more scientific level, if you feed any sound into an oscilloscope – a sound measuring instrument – depending upon its frequency and amplitude, a form is created. "The sound : The AUM itself is considered the very root of physical creation. In the yogic culture, the source of creation entire existence is seen as a web of sounds, for Namaste, which the root sounds "Aa", "Oo", and "Mm", are uttered together as "Aum''. Every night, while cradling my new-born to sleep, putting up my most soothing voice, the thought fills me as to how much we are in harmony with the sounds around us. The three month old is not aware of the tunes, the genres, the words, yet, the vibrations come in tune with her. It was a quiet night as Tarun and Vishal sat gazing at the Remember the Inside trip that I went to? There we stars outside their camp. Vishal asked Tarun if he could hear were informed about the four kinds of sounds: Coming from an Indian family, the presence of music is more the slight whirring sounds of the wind. Both of them profound; be it a small celebration to mark an achievement, discussed that despite the apparent inactivity, there was • The first type of sound is vaikari. This is the sound that I birth of a baby, anniversaries, or large-scale marriages, it is not complete silence. Even in the serene surroundings, speak and you hear – the physical sound. incomplete without music. From the daily mantras chanted there was some sound if you listened closely. in my house, to gatherings of family members over , • The second form is madhyama, “the middle one.” It is a or playing antakshari during road trips, music is a major “Is there a form to sound, Vishal?” Tarun wondered aloud. sound that comes from a dimension of our mind. companion in every memory. Whether it is for our personal purposes or to connect to the divine through bells, conch, or “Yes, there is,” Vishal replied remembering a lecture he had • The third dimension of sound is referred to as pashyanti, bhajans or gurbani, music has a deep devotional dynamic to it. attended, “In fact, it is said that every sound has a form which is our mind’s ability to create an image to a sound attached to it and every form has a sound attached to it.” even when we hear it the first time. The magazine is an attempt to bring you closer to the presence of music and the silence it brings along. In the next Tarun was not convinced, “How can something invisible to • The fourth dimension is called para vak. “Vak” means “voice,” few pages, we collect some of those memories and the the eye have a form?” “para” means “the divine” or the source of creation. deeper essence of music. Hope you find your rhythm or discover a new one on this musical sojourn. “Do you see that owl flying over there, Tarun?” And so, the yogic lore goes that sound is the basis of creation.

“No!” Tarun exclaimed, trying to look around, almost Wow, that’s quite a lot of information. But tell me more Love, standing up as he had never seen an owl. about the last bit. Soumya “Okay, what about that bat near that tree?” You know sounds originate from reverberations, right?

“Where are you seeing all these?” Tarun questioned The source of creation is vibrations and reverberations. squinting his eyes to take a closer look. And that is not just what the yogic lore says but what even modern science proves. Be it the Big Bang Theory of the “Actually, I am not seeing them either.” Tarun was confused universe, or the galaxy sounds that NASA recently shared now. with the world, our existence is seen as reverberations of energy at different levels of vibrations. Where there is a But tell me, when I said “bat” what were you trying to see? vibration, there is bound to be a sound. So the entire existence is a kind of sound or a complex amalgamation of I was obviously trying to look for a black bird with those sounds. In fact, that’s why even in silence you can sense distinct wings that the bat has, why? these basic sounds if you listen carefully.

See, even when you didn’t see a bat, you had some form Is that why my mother stresses on me pronouncing every already associated with it in your mind based on the word word correctly and clearly? I would definitely like to read I said, or what you heard, basically the word is an more about it. interpretation of a sound. Sure, let’s do that tomorrow. We should sleep now. Hmmm, interesting, I never thought of it that way. 3 4 The Beauty of The seasonal thinking about music is universal. Legendary Italian composer Antonio Lucio & Vivaldi created a set of concertos called the “The Four Seasons” where each production is a musical Picture any being played in an empty Many Indian ragas are said to have healing expression of a season of the year. room. Imagine it vibrating the air at a certain frequency, the properties for the singers and audiences. For music flying through the air, reaching your ears, moving instance, the raga is regarded as a some liquids in there, and firing up the same vibrations in panacea for mild ill-health, Todi as the relief the neurons of your brain. This is a classical example of how of severe sinus headaches, and Carnatic ragas music “colors the mind.” like Bharavi and Athana as the restorers of In , the ragas serve as the backbone of spirit and energy. the nuanced vocabulary, the stipulated notes strung Inspired by the Indian Raga (known as ‘rag’ in northern India together, and the distinct melodic phrases constructed. and ‘ragam’ in southern India), this phrase has its origins in Each melody is intended to convey a memorable idea to the the language. “Raga” literally means “colour” or listener. The beauty of the performance comes from the “passion” in Sanskrit. Functionally, it is a melodic framework Historically, ragas were time-specific as they were classified synchronization of ornamentations, vibrato (change in used for improvising and composing Indian classical music. according to seasons of the year and times of the day. For pitch), delivery, and timing. example, Raga Basant and Bahar were traditionally rendered In a raga, musical notes follow a scale, with a given set during the vasant ritu (spring season). So, most classical The Swaras in classical music are symbolic expressions or appearing in a typical order. Going from note to note, music concerts in February and March featured these ragas, representations of the seven notes of the musical scale. weaving melodies, and emphasizing specific musical motifs individually or as a combination of the two. Nowadays, this then creates an atmosphere or a mood that is unique to the custom is fading away, perhaps due to our changing Often designated as the ‘saptaka’ these swaras are The swara solmization corresponds to the raga in question. This is termed as the ‘rasa’. lifestyles and general disconnect from nature in urban settings. shortened to the sounds Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni. Western solfege system of Do, Re, Mi, Fa, Sol, La, Collectively, these notes are known as the ‘sargam’. One of Ti. Japanese music follows a convention based Although there are about a hundred ragas in Indian classical the most noticeable applications of these syllables is in on an ancient poem, comprising the syllables i, music, there are some prominent ones that have seasonal teaching vocal music. As a pedagogical technique, the ro, ha, ni, ho, he, to. associations. Here are six such ragas from the North Indian sargam is crucial both structurally and aesthetically. It is tradition. consistent with the raga format and serves as a base for vocal exercises and practice. Bhairav (Dawn) Suggesting a peaceful mood and devotional attitude

Hindol (Spring, Morning) A raga that personifies love with its structure and phrasing; it imitates the movement of a swing

Megh (Monsoon) A pacifying raga earlier used to welcome the clouds and form an invitation to the rainy season

Shri (Dusk) A raga full of grace, majesty, and dedication, used in evening prayers

Deepak (Evening) The raga having the power to create heat and fire, also featured in a popular story where Tansen is forced to sing it in Akbar’s court

Malkauns (Winter, Late Night) A soothing raga believed to be a creation of Goddess Parvati, who used it to calm Lord Shiva

5 6 The Evolution Turning

Scientists have found flutes made from mammoth ivory : and bird bones from ancient caves in southern Germany. These musical instruments date back at least 43,000 years and serve as evidence of the earliest occupations of THE SOUND OF MUSIC homo-sapiens. OVER THE YEARS

Emulating the sounds of nature with tones and repetitions.

Combining sounds with vocals and lyrics inspired by natural surroundings.

Various stringed instruments, such as the Ravanahatha, Use of music in ceremonies and traditions having close associations have been recovered from archaeological sites like the with land and wildlife. Indus Valley Civilization. The Indian musical traditions, like Marga Sangeet (The Path to Salvation), find references in Development of musical instruments that could produce distinctive the Vedas and other ancient Hindu scriptures. sounds.

Music has been around tens of thousands of years. It is with their newborns before they learned to talk. Moreover, Production of sophisticated and complex sounds with multiple believed to be one of the most primary systems of up until the middle ages, music was a part of education, instruments being played together. communication, along with language. Archaeological and alongside astronomy, arithmetic, and geometry. It was not genetic studies have proven that the twin powers of language seen as a purely artistic discipline, separate from science Creation of songs that changed their rhythm, tempo, and lyrics and music have been instrumental in passing down and disconnected from the economic and work issues that information, skills, and ideas across and within generations. dominated our existence. Rather, it was a significant part of depending on cultures. the rubric that was used to understand and solve the Music, specifically, was seen as a biological human skill ever problems of the world. Formation of indigenous music styles and intertribal genres. since the Darwin era. “It is probable that the progenitors of man, either the males or females or both sexes before These foundational constructs of music remain unchanged Incorporation of western influences into traditional music and acquiring the power of expressing mutual love in articulate even today. Music is an exploration of the self, a reflection of extension into subgenres like classical, folk, blues, rock, etc. speech endeavoured to charm each other with musical the society, and a shared experience that has evolved across notes and rhythm,” he writes in The Descent of Man. Others millennia. It is not just an ancient paralanguage, or a thriving believed that it was a technique mothers used to communicate creative and economic pursuit, but an ordinary part of daily life. Emergence of techno and reggae music with faster pace and rhythms.

Computer-generated music, blended beatmatching, and the appearance of Disc Jockeys on the scene.

Globalization of music and people’s exposure to traditional as well contemporary styles with the advent of the internet.

Genesis of a global industry spurred by collaboration, innovation, and diversity.

7 8 How do you think music has evolved over the decades? Earlier, people were just playing music that was relevant to them in their area. Then, transportation came, and people In conversation discovered other styles from various places. They started exploring and combining because every human mind inherently craves change. This way, transportation, and communication brought cultures together and hence various music styles, with forms, and genres came together. Hence, music evolved. SAI SHRAVANAM What about the shift in the way the music is created and consumed, how much has that changed? Our recording sessions used to be more like gatherings, where everyone who was involved in the song came together to create; everybody was one. Everybody had the patience for each other and everyone came with a stronger sense of A skilled musician, music engineer/producer, and responsibility. Artistry was very human-dependent and not as tech-dependent as it is now. entrepreneur, Sai Shravanam has created a benchmark quality in all of his endeavors with a single-minded I do miss what used to be there, but you have to adapt to the change. I also believe that it is an added responsibility to The rendering should come out in a way that the art stands out and stays, living on devotion towards music. Recognized as one of the few ensure that technology aids art. beyond the artists. My task is to balance the emotional, technical, and artistic aspects as well as provide the ambient classically trained sound designers in the country, support that the artist needs to bring out fantastic performances. Shravanam has developed his talents through years of photo experience in recording music, bringing musicians the masterful chemistry necessary to produce their best. You mentioned adapting to change. What would your advice be to the youngsters regarding the Having worked on films like Life of Pi, The Man Who change, especially young artists? Knew Infinity, and many others, Shravanam recently Change is the law of nature, you have to evolve. If you don’t adapt to change, it causes resistance. However, you have to be became the first sound recordist to be honoured with wise enough to hold on to things where it is necessary. This balance is the responsibility that youngsters must have and the Tamil Nadu government’s Kalaimamani award. carry forward. You have to have the wisdom to understand which change is necessary, or is good for the art, accordingly holding on, or letting go, and adapting.

Has the change also influenced the essence of classical music? What should be the role of the youth? Fusion is the norm in the modern world. However, the efforts that go into learning and practicing classical music and the benefits it gives you are not fully understood. Classical music is not that peppy, and that’s what works more on the internet. Classical tunes largely populate the playlists of those who can relate to the music in some way. The sounds may not be as perky as the music we hear these days, but they keep you connected with your roots. You once said, “My studio is like an MRI machine that shows the sonic health of artists,” Can you Classical music is complex, deep, and connected, even genetically, with human history. Every gene has memory, our culture please elaborate on that interesting remark? is really just the celebration of who we are and what we are. If we consistently make efforts to imbibe it, it would come to Music integrates emotions, the purpose of music is as an enabler because there is so much that it can bring. However, in this us organically. process of making music when an artist comes to the studio, there is a clinical and technical aspect also involved. Even the tiniest particle in the mouth can be heard through the sensitive microphone inside the studio, you can make out if the artist is “in-form” or not, if he/she has practiced enough, what is the mood, all of it. Because of this exposure, I call the studio an What kind of resources can the youth explore and enhance their awareness of classical music? Everything is available on the internet but, one must have the wisdom to take the best from everything. Apart from MRI machine. That said, I always try to create a balance in my studio, so that the artist feels comfortable in delivering their best. consuming the information, the human touch is very crucial. You need to find a mentor, as a guiding source; the experience will plant a seed that can grow into the fruit-bearing tree. So, the search should also be directed towards You mentioned music integrates emotions. Can you talk about that? identifying inspiration in the humans around us. Music is basically sounds in harmony, when someone sings in harmony, you very well connect to it. Also, various emotions come out of music as different notes are harmonized in disparate ways. We think we listen to music through our ears but our brain, our entire body can take in the vibrations. Music is sound, the sound is vibration, and various points of your spine receive these vibrations that trigger an impulse in your pituitary gland and end up creating emotions for you. Different notes create different vibrations and hence, various emotions.

If you had to explain to a young aspiring musician what Sound Engineering is, how would you do that? Sound engineering is like cooking. For something to taste good, you need to know the proportions in which ingredients need to be added, and how the meal has to be served. Similarly, sound engineering is about getting the right inputs and the right mix, knowing what sound should go in what quantity; how much of sound, how much of instrument, and the final essence as to how is the music to be rendered and presented. Additionally, you have to understand the space where the sound is being created. For example, if you go to the Taj Mahal and say “Om”, the sound would stay and the effect it creates is magical. So, you have to notice how space gives back and then accordingly, record, returning music to that space. Basically, sound engineering involves the representation of music, knowing what is what and how much of it should come out, how well they are all balanced. It enhances the entire musical experience.

9 10 In your recent music and theatre production, you used the sound of silk and cotton looms from Kanchipuram and famous temples, how did you come about these connections? For that piece, the artist wanted some bit of sound of the loom in the piece. It just came to my mind, why don’t we go there From the and try to make the entire music piece out of it? There are two things to be noted here: One, when you have resistance and The Musical Journey of a think you cannot do something, then you will never grow if you stay in your comfort zone. You should go out and try. New-Age Digital Creator Secondly, the vision. Anything is a sound to me, it could be a grain of sand in my home. I believe it is just your vision, how you want to transform it. Music can be created out of every sound.

You established Resound India in 2007 as a in Indian Classical Music between artists and modern technology. Could you take us through the journey of the studio? We asked some of our readers to share their relationship with music and discovered this interesting tale shared by 16-year-old Divij, who I found so much more comfort and openness in all kinds of sounds and saw a whole universe in it. I initially wanted to be a was born in Mumbai, India but moved to Auckland, New Zealand with his family at a young age. Read on to know about his journey. player but as I explored sound more and more, I started to do my own things and eventually began collaborating. People started coming to my studio for how they felt in my space and the results they got there. I have been like a boat in a free stream, I kept flowing without any resistance. So, my greatest strength as I did what I wanted to do, but I never wandered. You can’t do random things, I was very sure of what I was doing. I really wanted to do this because of what I felt Ever since I was a kid, music always had an immense impact '2020' talking about my goals and dreams for the year 2020 for music and because of the feedback I received. I followed my intuition and went with wherever it took me, embracing on my life, whether it was school assemblies, family (thanks to a particular virus all of those dreams were it. I really dove into things, tried, learned, and practiced. I truly believe that sound chose me; my duty and responsibility get-togethers, or simply car journeys with the radio playing. shattered soon enough!) I began with an audience of 50 was to give my best to it. And that translates to the sounds I create and also what I do with other people. Like everyone From Imagine Dragons to Chris Brown and Drake, music listeners, just friends and family, realising quickly that I was else, I don’t know what the future holds, so I'm flowing while the sound and my art take care of me. artists have had a massive influence on me. I started lacking in one department of my music: Marketing. In my listening to hip hop music in particular when 'King Kunta' by opinion, marketing your music is as, if not more, important You have been a part of movies like Life of Pi and The Man Who Knew Infinity. Any anecdotes to Kendrick Lamar played on the radio. It instantly became my as actually releasing your music, because no matter how share with our young readers? favourite. After my first listen, I played it on repeat at home good a song is, if no one is listening to it, it doesn't make your When I had to record for the Life of Pi, I did not know it was for that movie. I was excited because it was for Fox Studios and and the next day, knew every single bar to the song. That's hard work worthwhile. I had a strong passion for the music and a commitment to record for them. The recording was supposed to happen the next when my music obsession began. I was in many 'rap groups' day, and my internet and computer suddenly stopped working. I called Santosh Narayanan in the middle of the night to and 'bands' with my friends from primary school, and the So, I quickly changed my focus to trying to build a fanbase, borrow his equipment but even that could not work. I then somehow configured the system and miraculously the session memories and amusement I get from thinking about old with an active audience wanting more music from me. Over happened. Today, Santosh is an influential film composer but that day he was just a technician, and yet he was there to help. times is priceless. the past year, I've been doing exactly that, releasing 6 songs The takeaway here is that we need to help each other along the way, whenever we can. You will see how things turn out with a combined total streams of 800,000, and aspirations later in various forms of rewards (not just awards). I always knew I loved music, and music would eventually be for many more in the future. My overall journey taught me a big part of my life, but I never knew where to start. Ever one thing: Believing in yourself is the most crucial thing in since I was 4 years old, becoming a professional cricketer order for you to succeed in anything. If I had not taken a was the only thing on my mind. When I moved to India a chance on music, I would not be here right now, writing this couple years back, that goal went from the only thing on my article and having people read this. I'm very grateful to mind, to one of the things in my mind. Music started taking over. everyone who's supported me throughout my journey and I can assure you this is not the last you will hear of King Div. I started writing songs daily, but noticed most of my music (Find out more about Divij's music on his Instagram account: @kingdiv_) was becoming repetitive (not to be surprised, I was a 13 year old with not much to write about.) I soon realised that this won't work for long and that I needed to improve myself, whether its flow, delivery or even writing, I need more experience. For about 2 years I spent my time trying different styles and experimenting with my music. Finally, in January 2020 I believed I was ready. I released my first song

11 “Rest your mind and follow your heart, and as I said in the 12 beginning, let it be about passion, not just the project. ” In Tune with Melodies of the the

Music is often an integral part of everyone’s life, be it for The Vedic mantras were often sung in the form of bhajans entertainment, as a hobby, a vocation, or simply out of and kirtans, accompanied by various instruments as tools passion. Sometimes, we begin our mornings with music to for calling the divine. Many young musicians are also People all over the world make, appreciate, and respond to lasting. It can evoke and unlock memories, making us shake off the blues, or other times we use it to calm the exploring this meditative aspect through their work. Here music. Music is an experience that transcends the remember the things much clearly while also helping build noise inside our minds. In that context, music has a are some examples: single-minded attachment to money, fame, or adulation. better verbal and motor skills. Rhymes are clear prominent role when one thinks about meditation. Even if you make music sitting alone in a room — not demonstrations of this fact. They not only help children Nowadays, there are a plethora of apps and online showing or reciting your creation to anyone else — you predict patterns in a language but also trigger creative and resources offering calming music, mostly targeted at those Sahil Jagtiani is a rock musician, a passionate learn a great deal about what is inside you. And that open-ended play. The use of mnemonic songs for who want to begin their journey with meditation. Has music singer and guitarist. After learning the signifies the power of music. memorizing the elements of the periodic table and making always been an integral part of maintaining mindfulness? breathing and meditation techniques from The up tracks to remember the historical timelines or events are Can it be linked to spirituality? We explore these questions Art of Living, he took to music, bringing Listening to music affects us at various levels. From some other examples. with the following two ideas: spirituality to the youth through his songs. Sahil activating different parts of the brain, to producing believes that meditation is his most important goosebumps, to sending chills down the spine, to moving us More than anything, music is a widely accepted social glue Music and meditation instrument in creating music as it nourishes his to tears, and filling us with energy, music has an impact on that brings people together. This is backed by science, too. Meditation is often practiced with music because it assists creativity. The meditative state drives the music our bodies in more ways than we might think. Research Listening to music increases the secretion of Oxytocin, the mind in settling into a calm state. The soothing tunes with a deeper purpose. studies have also shown that it can regulate the heart rate which is related to emotions like trust, empathy, and don’t necessarily engage the mind with music, rather softly and bring down the levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, relationship building. So, music is not only a universal fill the spaces as a buffer to outside noises, hence aiding in improving our tolerance to pain. human skill that enhances our well-being but it also binds us meditation. and lets us imagine a better world. So far as the cognitive development of the brain is concerned, The mantras that we use during meditation are also musical Abhanga Repost is a folk fusion band that the impact of music is again considered significant and long at their core as they are composed of sound, and vibrations performs Abhangas [written by these that come with uttering that sound. It is believed that every composers who worshipped Vittala (or Vithoba) mantra activates a particular kind of energy in different in Maharashtra], giving these age-old parts of the body. When repeated with proper awareness compositions a modern twist. Abhangs are and appropriate understanding, a mantra could be very high-energy renditions, with devotees dancing, powerful with its vibrational qualities and influence our playing the and cymbals, while everyone physiology and mental wellbeing. , joins the chorus. The band calls their The Gen Z Way performance a modern '' and says that for Music as meditation them Bhakti, revolution, art, and music are the Music, much like any other art form, when done with total same: “One has to practice dedicatedly to involvement, can be identified as a spiritual process that achieve these things. We can say these are leads to a meditative state. From classical to folk and sufi different roads leading to one destination that music, there has been a strong presence of spiritual energy. is divinity or inner peace!” Some musical pieces provide different energy to the Listening to motivational Infusing the time table Sharing playlists with listener, transcending them to a different zone altogether. songs before study with ‘music breaks’ to friends and bonding over marathons unwind common interests

Kabir Cafe Live, a folk band that exclusively performs verses of Saint Kabir, is another interesting example that has been a part of Isha Yoga Centre’s Mahashivaratri celebrations taking the audience closer to the divine energy with their music. Putting on music during Using guided physical workout meditation videos sessions and exercises with soothing music Sources: The Art of Living; Isha Foundation; Centre for Soft Power 13 14 Saar MANTRA UCHHAAR

It is said that Mantras bring out the positive energy within you and they also bring you back to your source. GLOBAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP ACADEMY Chanting or listening to mantras produce vibrations that are positive, life uplifting energy, and are universal. Most of the mantras from our ancient literature start with “Aum”. Here we have listed some such mantras Explore | Engage | Excel that you can chant (with appropriate guidance) to enhance your energy and create that positive vibration. ओ३म् Aum, meaning peace and love, is considered to be the sound of the universe, the basis of all creation.

ॐ नमः िशवाय || ‘Na Ma Shi Va Ya’ – these five syllables indicate the five elements (known as Pancha Bhoota in Sanskrit) – Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether. The five elements are the building blocks of everything in Creation, including the human body, and Lord Shiva is the master of these five elements. Chanting this mantra harmonises the five elements in the environment which in turn provides bliss and joy not just within you, but also around you.

लोकः समस्ताः सुखिनो भवन्तु || ‘May all beings everywhere be happy and free.’ This mantra offers a blessing of compassion and kindness to all beings. Sometimes called the Lokah Mantra, it is truly an offering of loving-kindness to all beings, animals and humans alike.

ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात् ॥ 'Let my mind and the whole existence be illumined and purified by your radiance' The Gayatri mantra affects all the three states of consciousness, jagrut (waking), sushupt (deep sleep), swapna (dream) and the three layers of existence adhyatmik, adidhaivik and adibhautik. The chanting of Gayatri mantra sharpens the intellect and brightens the memory.

ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् | उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात् || ‘We worship the three-eyed One, who is fragrant and who nourishes all. AGE GROUP: 15-19 YEARS | 14TH JUNE, 2021 Like the fruit falls off from the bondage of the stem, may we be liberated from death, from mortality.’ This is considered to be among the most powerful mantras that can help you tune into the healing force within Learning: Connecting: Engaging: Supporting: you and support growth, nourishment, and calmness. Online courses aligned with Indic knowledge, practical Activities and workshops Mentorship and career individual interests skills, & modern problems handpicked by experts development opportunities ॐ असतो मा सद्गमय । तमसो मा ज्योतिर्गमय । मृत्योर्मा अमृतं गमय । ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥ O Lord, do not keep me in the unreal world rather make me go towards the reality of eternal self; do not keep me in the ignorant state of darkness, but make me go towards the light of spiritual knowledge; do not keep me the world of mortality, rather make me go towards the world of self-realization. Chanting of ‘shanti’ three times represents peace in body, speech, and mind.

Asatoma Sadgamaya is a reminder to move from untruth to truth. It indicates the way out of struggle to a life of www.igenplus.com wellbeing through the journey within and to stay rooted within you.

16 GUBGUBA Traditional A dried gourd with an attached gut string, which looks like a tiny tabla at first glance. Another version of such traditional Indian percussion string instruments is the Bengali .

KUZHAL A double-reed wind instrument from Kerala, comprising a Instruments brass bell, a wooden body, and a conical bore. Because of its We know about the , tabla, mridanga, harmonium, , , appearance and shrill, penetrating tone, it is often mistaken as a large shehnai. , etc. But many other lesser-known traditional instruments make up the paraphernalia of traditional Indian music. Let us take a look at some of this fascinating gear.

GOGONA ALGHOZA An indegenous vibrating reed instrument with bifurcations on one end, hailing from , usually made of Bamboo, A pair of woodwind flutes used by Sindhi, Punjabi, Kutchi, and used in music. and Rajasthani folk musicians. One flute takes care of the melody while the other sustains the harmony or the ‘drone’.

UDUKKAI PEPA An hourglass drum resembling a ‘damru’, widely used in A hornpipe used in Assam, India, known as Phenpha in the prayers and devotional practices in Tamil Nadu. Boro language, now being made from bamboo and cane.

SURSRINGAR ANDELU A metal fingerboard with a flat horn bridge, a wooden A pair of brass toroids that are usually worn on the left pumpkin, and steel and bronze strings, played with a metal thumb, serving as a rhythmic accompaniment for folk pick. A greatly regarded solo instrument in the 19th and storytelling, making a ‘jingle’ sound when struck. 20th centuries, the sursingar is fast disappearing from the music scene today.

PAKHAWAJ KARTAL A barrel-shaped drum, descendant of the and a A large wooden-framed instrument with metal jingles distant relative of the South Asian two-headed percussion mounted inside, typically beaten together to provide light instruments. Most commonly used in the ‘Dhrupad’ style of music in ‘bhajans’. Indian classical music and Kathak dance.

17 18 TRIVIA QUIZ WORD SEARCH

LOOK FOR THESE MUSICAL GENRES IN THE

1. What is the oldest surviving ? CROSSWORD PUZZLE BELOW (a) Trumpet (c) Drum (b) (d) Lyre D A P U R H D U H P U C P H 2. Which is the oldest Gharana of Hindustani Music? (a) Gwalior (c) Patiala U I H U L K K K D 0 I 0 H T (b) Lucknow (d) Mewati U L S E B L C H A P L U G F

3. How many pieces of wood are there in a modern ? P R J C U E 0 Y H F L N P 0 (a) 15 (c) 70 D A A 0 0 G R A G R I T U L (b) 7 (d) 100 L G Z A I H Y L 0 C Z R C K 4. Who holds the Guinness World Record for Most Studio Recordings? T E Z K A A 0 0 S A P Y 0 E (a) Lata Mangeshkar (c) Mohammed Rafi (b) Sonu Nigam (d) Asha Bhosle 0 H K E A Z K A P R G I I T

5. What was the band Linkin Park originally called? P R U A N A E R E N A M A R (a) Meteora (c) Reanimators 0 B E M A L A E L A P C Z L (b) Xero (d) ZiggyZag H L L G R P R P E T S B U D 6. Which of the following Indian music schools was established by P U G F G I E 0 C I L 0 A L Pandit Vishnu Digambar Paluskar in May, 1901? (a) Gandharva Mahavidyalaya (c) Delhi School of Music I E L H D A L D H C P G E L (b) Utkal Sangeet Mahavidyalaya (d) Bhatkhande Music Institute H S Y H K R E P M F K E S 0

7. The first Indian gramophone record (1898) by entrepreneur

Hemendra Mohan Bose was made in which city? ROCK GHAZAL DUBSTEP KAFI (a) Mumbai (c) Udaipur BLUES DISCO OPERA (b) (d) Kolkata FOLK JAZZ DHRUPAD POP EDM THUMRI HIP HOP GOSPEL KHYAL

5. (b) Xero | 6. (a) Gandharva Mahavidyalaya | 7. (d) Kolkata (d) 7. | Mahavidyalaya Gandharva (a) 6. | Xero (b) 5. COUNTRY Answers: REGGAE 1. (b) Flute | 2. (a) Gwalio | 3. (c) 70 | 4. (d) Asha Bhosle Asha (d) 4. | 70 (c) 3. | Gwalio (a) 2. | Flute (b) 1. CARNATIC

19 20 IGenPlus delegates got a chance to take a tour of these installations as a part of the Inside India program back in 2019. Teenagers from different corners of the country took part in several workshops, festivals, and live sessions. One of the workshops was with the artisans at Swaram in Auroville. Participants got to handcraft musical instruments and learn Musical about the history, traditions, and healing practices connected with them. JOURNEYING THROUGH THE SOUNDSCAPES OF SOUTH INDIA

Indian Music Experience (IME) is a one-of-a-kind museum in Karnataka that explores the evolution of Indian music with interactive, multi-sensory exhibits. Head to Bnagalore’s JP Nagar to witness internationally-designed galleries and artefacts and listen to soulful classical music and contemporary fusion, all in one place. It is a great place to introduce children to the world of music.

IME Highlights

SOUND GARDEN: 10 unique installations, including xylophones, gongs, bells, and the ‘singing stone’

WRAPAROUND THEATRE: 5-minute animated film encapsulating the journey of Indian music as a visual and auditory delight

GALLERY OF CONTEMPORARY EXPRESSIONS: A documentary on ‘indie rock’ music shown inside brightly-painted auto rickshaws; also includes a ‘hybrid sounds’ interactive DJ booth

SAMAY CHAKRA THEATRE: A room that brings alive the morning, evening, and midnight ragas of Hindustani music; visitors lie on the floor to gaze up at the masterpiece

STRING PUPPETS SECTION: A celebration of folk songs, festivals, and legendary stories about life

INSTRUMENTS GALLERY: Features a stunning collection of more than 100 instruments; also has touch-screens for displaying 360-degree views and listening to the sounds

INTERACTIVE SECTION ON HINDI FILMS: Background scores demonstrating the emotions of Bollywood, from comedy, to melodrama, to thrillers

GALLERY OF THE STARS: A recording studio where the entire family can sing, design an album cover, and email a digital copy of the track as a souvenir

SONGS OF STRUGGLE GALLERY: Iconic songs of the Indian freedom movement, including tunes from some lesser-known singers and poets who used music to protest against injustice

GRAMOPHONE SET: A photo-op set that takes you back to the 1920s when gramophones were a pride of homes and brought neighborhoods together

21 Tapping the Rhythm of Water INDO-ISRAEL

The Jaltarang, or Jalatharangam as it is called in South Jaltarang occupies a distinguishable position on India’s TEEN CONVENTION India, is a melodic originating from cultural map. It is not rare to see Hindustani and Carnatic A THREE-DAY ONLINE LEADERSHIP SUMMIT the Indian subcontinent. It is composed of a set of metallic musicians creating visual narratives and sonic modifications or ceramic bowls arranged in a semicircle before the with the use of this instrument in concerts. They often change performer. The musician strikes the edge of the bowls the water levels of the porcelain bowls mid-performance with beaters, one on each hand, and the musicality of the to transition into different melody-types of ragas. instrument is completely dependent on the quantity of water present in the bowls.

Israel Time: 18,19 & 25 India Time: Sat & Sun 11:30 am till April 2021 3:00 pm till 6:00 pm 2:30 pm

In the medieval times, Jaltarang was called the ‘jal yantra’. The instrument is also referenced in the text of Sangeet Parijaat, which categorizes it as an idiophone (something that vibrates as a whole without the use of membranes or Vidushi Shashikala Dani is one of the most famous strings). Come to think of it, an idiophone is basically a classical Jaltarang artists in India. She is currently the only ‘ghana vadyam’, similar to a gong or cymbal, that does not female exponent of the instrument graded by the require any tuning. All India Radio.

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23 On quizzing him about the key differences between his journey and his father’s, “social media and mobile connectivity” comes as a prompt reply.

“The internet has definitely increased awareness and exposure about Indian music. I recently posted a video of Plugging Into The me playing the Ghatam on Instagram. It went viral, garnering millions of views. Then, I started receiving messages from people asking to learn the instrument.” Cadence Inside Us But when one observes mainstream concert stages, Ghatam is still a rarity to come across. What could be the reasons for this?

“The first thing is awareness and education. Many think of the Ghatam as only a clay pot. It is much more than that. I have been working on these aspects through the Udupa Foundation, trying to expand knowledge to different audiences across different parts of the globe. I am also Giridhar Udupa is a world-renowned percussionist and considering organizing Ghatam workshops for young people. a global ambassador of Ghatam, one of the most The other thing could be the accessibility of the ancient musical instruments of India. Termed as “the instrument. In fact, there is only one family in the entire king of pot music” by Rave magazine, he is part of the world that has been making the Ghatam for the last four ‘Layatharanga’ team of Indian classical musicians who generations. The technicalities and quality specifications have set out to blend different forms of classical, folk, for the instrument are known to these specialists who live and world music. He is also the founder and director of 40 kms from Madurai in Tamil Nadu. We are in the process The Udupa Foundation, a charitable trust that promotes of making the Ghatam available for purchase through our music, performing arts, and culture. centre or a store setup.”

Giridhar Udupa is disseminating such ideas to a larger audience with his live concerts and initiatives like The Udupa Foundation. His aim is to take the inherited ‘Ghatam’ Giridhar Udupa believes there is a rhythm inside His conviction and dedication to music brought him to the traditions of India deeper and higher, keeping them from all of us. We sat down to chat with him about this idea, his center stage of as a performer and teacher. vanishing from contemporary life. journey, and his message to today’s youth. In 1975, he established an institution for training students and Giridhar is one of his disciples who later ventured into Know more at www.udupafoundation.com or on Instagram Just like our heart beat, there is a rhythm cycle in everyday playing the Ghatam professionally. @ghatamududpa. life. “When we walk, nod our heads to music, when we clap our hands to accompany a performance, or even when the “I played my very first concert with the Ghatam only. general way our body moves and grooves to music are Although my father himself was a classical musician, he confirmations that there is a rhythm inside us. The tempo never stopped me from experimenting with crossovers might keep changing but the beats follow a system. When and collaborations with other styles. Of course, you stick you learn this system, it is easy to go on further.” to the foundational concepts but there is freedom to explore.”

“I was enamoured by music at an early age with my father, Anyone who sees Giridhar in action would be able to notice a Mrudangam artist. I used to be a naughty kid, always how saadhna and abhyaas have played a critical role in his playing pranks on people. I haven’t changed much now. But mastery. “Ghatam is one the simplest instruments that you back then, when I started playing the mrudangam, it was a can start one’s musical journey with. Once you start, you natural progression as my father was into percussion music.” would not be able to stop. However, the key is to practice regularly and have patience in the process. I am comforted Giridhar’s father, Vidwan Ullur Nagendra Udupa, is a by a quote from the violinist L. Subramaniam, who said well-known name in classical Carnatic music. He started his that music is a vast ocean that no one can claim to know in musical career in the Karavali region in Karnataka as a entirety. The more you know, the more you realize how Yakshagana artist and then migrated from his home village little you know, it is an eternal quest.” to to embark on a new payana in percussion art. 25 26 Taking Indian Music USTAD BISMILLAH KHAN was a stalwart musician credited with bringing the shehnai to the concert stage. He elevated the significance of the by playing it on prestigious stages, such as the Lincoln Centre Hall in the US, the Montreal World Exposition in Canada, the Cannes Festival in France, and the Osaka Trade Fair in Japan. The sample sounds of Indian instrumentation and music are commonly found in recordings all over the world, but it is rare Throughout his lifetime, he was recognized for his to see Indians interacting with such pieces. Globalization and the advent of the internet have surely contributed to outstanding contributions with four highest civilian awards, greater sharing, co-creation, and the rise of the fusion genre, which is a combination of two or more styles of music. Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and However, you may be surprised to know that such east-west collaboration is something that began several decades ago. Padma Shri.

This compilation of Indian Icons is proof that classical music can offer a robust foundation for innovation and new-age music, transcending borders and appealing to diverse audiences. If you haven't heard of them yet, you can begin your quest now.

Tabla virtuoso ZAKIR HUSSAIN made international headlines in 1991 when he won the Grammy award for the MS SUBBULAKSHMI was the first-ever musician who was Best World Music Album for ‘Planet Drum’ along with conferred the Padma Bhushan award by the Indian percussionists Mickey Hart and Vikku Vinayakram. In 1999, government in 1954. She became a leading exponent of he formed a fusion music group called the Tabla Beat classical and semi-classical songs of the Carnatic tradition, Science with American guitarist Bill Lasswell. This project earning the moniker ‘Rainbow Voice of India’ and later, gave birth to the ‘Tala Matrix’, a reigning musicological receiving the Bharat Ratna. When she performed for the exploration of tabla fusion in the modern era. In 2009, Hussain UN General Assembly concert at Carnegie Hall in New won a Grammy for his joint album ‘Global Drum Project’. York, she strung up her compositions to engage and delight the global masses.

PANDIT HARIPRASAD CHAURASIA is another prominent of the Hindustani classical tradition. As a world-renowned Sitar maestro PANDIT RAVI SHANKAR was another Bharat flautist and music director, he has collaborated with many Ratna awardee who took Indian music global. From writing western musicians, including Jan Garbarek, John McLaughin music for Satyajit Ray's movies to becoming an international and Ken Lauber. He also serves as the artistic director of the ambassador of North Indian or Hindustani classical music, World Music Department at the Rotterdam Music his journey was filled with praise and acclaim. He even Conservatory in the Netherlands. In 2013, the Ministry of collaborated with George Harrison, a band member of The Information and Broadcasting chronicled his life and legacy Beatles, and mesmerized audiences by combining his sitar in the documentary film ‘ Guru’. notes with bass notes. His daughter Anoushka Shankar continues his legacy and gave her first-ever performance at New Delhi's Siri Fort at the age of thirteen.

Singer USHA UTHUP is known for her organic fusion statement style and trademark wit. A Padma Shri recipient, USTAD AMJAD ALI KHAN is a champion of the prominent she can sing in over thirteen Indian languages and eight string instrument Sarod. His impact on fusion of Indian and foreign languages. She has embraced pluralism through her western classical music is more than five decades old. His work in Bollywood, pop music, and jazz. She has even sung a album Sarod Symphony melds the ragas with European collection of rhymes — Karadi Tales — which introduce sounds inspired by Beethoven, Bach, and Russia’s Indian rivers, festivals, trees, foods, attires, and even folk Tchaikovsky. The idea of the album dates back to 1976 tales to kids with toe-tapping beats. In 2019, she recorded a when he met and exchanged notes with guitarist Charlie cover of Bob Dylan’s Blowin’ in the Wind for the Byrd at the US Consulate in Kolkata. He has also improvised documentary ‘If Not for You’. music with cellist Matthe Barley and his sons, Amaan and Ayaan Ali, at The Royal Festival Hall in London. 27 28 The Role of Music in Parents Can Help

“When words fail, music speaks,” said Danish author Hans According to a study by the John Hopkins University School Christian Andersen. Isn’t it strange that someone who was of Education, integrating music in classrooms can help with Nada Yoga and Raga Chikitsa form the backbone of the Indian system of music therapy. Venting grief through composing a song is so loved for his writing would say this? There are several the three A’s of Attention, Attitude, and Atmosphere. And a normal tool used in Western Music Therapy. However, even non-musical parents who don’t have access to a music therapist nor examples from everyday life that demonstrate this this is true not just for classical music, the ragas, Mozart and know the intricacies of a raga can help their child with just a few basic concepts of how to work with rhythm and pentatonic scale. experience. During the COVID-19 lockdown, people across Baroque, but also for rock music and other new-age genres. the world found that music helped them escape, relax, raise Rock music can be particularly useful in setting a learning their mood, and feel less lonely. rhythm, and increasing learners’ attention during breaks, and in setting the tempo during exercises and other Some consider music as a sacred lore, calling it the fifth Veda physical activities. Parents have a critical role in assisting their growing emotions. Irrespective of what the form or genre of music is, (Panchama-veda), while others provide ample evidence of the adolescents in developing socially. Our conversations with it can help teenagers express, find solace, nurturing their beneficial impact of music on the brain. There is also parents reveal that understanding their children’s social development. Parents must understand this and use increasingly robust literature of research findings that perspective needs to be a priority. “My son is autistic but he affirmations that teach children to embrace the ‘self’ and support the developmental importance of music in is under the high functioning category, so he is almost not lose sight of it in group relations. adolescence, especially when it is combined with the normal. He also has hyperlexia. Without anyone's help, concept of flow. Evidence suggests that we must strive to just my insistence and belief, he wrote the lyrics, sang, This article features inputs from Seetha Gopalakrishnan, create learning spaces that are conducive to flow experiences. played the guitar, and added on the drum effect (with a few who has been a tax, legal and business consultant to taps on the table). He used to listen to Eminem, an multinationals for approximately 30 years. She has American rapper, which bothered us a lot as parents, until experience working on studies with international financial we took time to read about Eminem and his reason for institutions like Bank of Thailand, Thailand's Ministry of composing such songs. My son's debut composition is Energy, Asian Development Bank, and the World Bank. She proof that any parent who is willing to put in the effort to has funded a variety of musical instruments and conducted understand their teen can make a difference.” a ten-day residential music workshop for 60 HIV-infected The variability of the impact of music adolescents at Snehagram, Krishnagiri, India along with her can be modulated if one is in “Flow”. The takeaway here is that spending time with teenagers, son and daughter. From 2016 to 2017, she also provided The flow experience is a state of accepting their concerns, and encouraging them to take on music lessons and related assistance for seniors in a complete involvement in an activity new challenges can go a long way in forging a supportive retirement home in Coimbatore. that requires complete concentration. and loving relationship. Finding ways to spend time together, - Csikszentmihalyi, 1999. connecting over music can offer valuable starting points. Please write to us at [email protected] with any questions you may have for her. Music is basically a culmination of sounds whose vibrations create a certain impact on one’s brain and hence, the

Flow can support adolescents’ sense of agency. Here, agency refers to a person’s ability to influence their functioning and environment. It is directly linked to one’s self-efficacy and wellbeing. In youth, this agency is often challenged by external demands as one’s self-image is at a critical junction. The occurrence of flow in daily life can make teenagers much happier, producing favourable outcomes in the form of improved concentration, intrinsic motivation, optimism, cheerfulness, sociability, and commitment to education.

29 30 Inside A Musical Give me an open road Enterprise: No matter where it seems to lead Although the places they are distant Only the clouds will hold my feet

Kho gayi, par thi, mithi kuch ve yaadein Reh gaye, haan ve, bachpan ke ve vaadein Nikle, hum bhi, nainon mein liye sapne Bhatke, path se, yaad aayein ab apne

-Distant Places (Album: On Detours)

From performing at the White House, to serenading the Indian audiences at the IIFA Awards, to featuring in movies like Pitch Perfect 2, Penn Masala is making a name for itself as a successful musical enterprise.

The world’s first South Asian A Capella group has arrived on anywhere else. Their original compositions deliver rich the global stage with innovative Hindi-English mashups. textures and complex vocal arrangements without any From performing at the White House, to serenading the instrumental accompaniments, attracting fans from a wide Indian audiences at the IIFA Awards, to featuring in movies range of backgrounds. like Pitch Perfect 2, Penn Masala is making a name for itself as a successful musical enterprise. Penn Masala has released 11 full-length studio albums to date, including Awaaz, Soundcheck, Pehchaan, On Detours, The performers have all grown up with both eastern and Yuva, and Musafir. Their music is available for streaming western cultures and formed the group in 1996 while and purchase across major music sites, such as Spotify and studying at the University of Pennsylvania in the United Apple Music. To know how the singers are bringing the States. With a desire to traverse and dissolve the boundaries distinct sounds of the Indian subcontinent to a capella, one between pop music and Bollywood, they embarked on a can also check out their videos on platforms like YouTube journey full of melodies and harmonies that won’t hear and Instagram.

Penn Masala in action at the White House during Diwali 2009

31 32 Depending on skills, experience, and qualifications, one can then venture into any of the following career paths:

Musician: Working as a singer-performer, instrumentalist, orchestra member, music composer, conductor, teacher, etc.

A career in music goes beyond mastering an instrument and balancing vocal cords. The modern world of musical education and practice has expanded to make available many new possibilities to the youth. So, let us look at some Publisher: Careers in internet radio and webcast licensing, intellectual property rights and emerging programs of study and career options that the Gen Z can look forward to. copyright protection, royalty management, and maintaining libraries of musical works.

One can consider pursuing courses in the below mentioned fields based on individual interests and aspirations.

Music Therapist: An allied health profession dealing with the therapeutic benefits of music in addressing cognitive, physical, psychological, and social needs of individuals and carrying Fine Arts: Involves foundational concepts like music theory, composition, education, out treatments that improve clients’ abilities. and practical approaches.

Music Producer: Undertaking audio engineering, production, and managerial responsibilities related to soundtracks, operating alongside the musical rendition Music Business: Management degrees covering artist management, music publishing, and recording sessions. organizing live events, etc.

Songwriter & Transcriber: Writing and constructing original musical compositions and lyrics for songs; recognizing musical notes and pitch, jotting down the scores onto a music sheet, and breaking the song into sections like intro, verse, and chorus Music Science: Contains a balance of modules in music and another technical subject, such as mathematics or biology, allowing students to study both subjects at degree level.

Media Manager: Handling promotions, social media accounts, and brand sponsorships, collaborations with broadcasting companies, and other marketing and outreach efforts.

Musical History: A sub-field of musicology and history that analyzes chronological perspectives, studies relationships between words and music, and reflects on the role of music in society. Music Journalist: Contributing as a staff writer for newspapers, magazines, news channels, or radio, covering music from a unique angle, evaluating artists’ works, or generally writing about music’s place in culture.

Sound Engineering: Encompasses basics of recording arts and music production with a view of developing transferable audio skills applicable to multimedia professions as well Music Curator: Conducting market research, brand analysis, clent interviews, etc. and as radio, film, television, and theatre. fitting music and sound to specific environments, people, and values. Curation includes everything from creating soundtracks for a brand to putting together ‘mood’ playlists on online platforms like Spotify.

Curriculum includes techniques for developing a distinctive Songwriting & Production: Researcher: Studying the neurobiological and anthropological aspects of music, learning voice as a songwriter, analyzing musical and lyrical structures, and supporting songs with and adding to the body of research about the interlinkages of musical creativity and appropriate instrumentation. psychopathology.

33 34 THIS DAY THAT YEAR Teen Musical Prodigies from India Music is a means of self-expression that is unbound by age and powered by inherent talent. These teenagers embody this idea, prompting wonder, praise, and admiration. WHEN? WHAT? Sucheta Satish, a 13-year-old Indian girl won the 100 April 18, 1982 World Heritage Day Global Prodigy Award in Dubai for singing in 120 languages during a live concert.

April 18 is celebrated as the World Heritage Day ever since treaty to safeguard lived experiences and unique practices After winning the award, Sucheta told reporters that she the International Council on Monuments & Sites (ICOMOS) of communities, groups, and individuals. Music is a part of had set another record as a 12-year old at the Dubai’s first announced it in 1982. The United Nations Educational, this intangible cultural heritage. Indian Consulate Auditorium by singing continuously for Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) then over 6.15 hours in 102 languages. “I make it a point to established this day as an acknowledgement of the shared If one looks at the congruence of architecture and music in practice every day, and I have been able to manage that human heritage and a celebration of what our ancestors ancient India, one is introduced to several remarkable without affecting my studies,” she added. Today, she have given us. works that have long transcended the boundaries of the already has two albums to her credit, and the latest one two arts. Take, for example, the stonemasons or sthapathis was launched in the presence of actors Every year on the World Heritage Day, young members of who created the Vijaya Vittala temple in Mammooty and Unni Mukundan. society in almost every country of the world participate in (Karnataka), the Lepakshi temple in Andhra Pradesh, and lectures, training sessions, competitions, and discussions, the Adi Kumbeswarar in Tamil Nadu. When struck, the combining inter-generational knowledge with creative use stone pillars of these religious sites emit musical notes. So, of modern technologies. before music was found in ordinary contexts, it flowed Lydian Nadhaswaram, a 13-year-old pianist from Chennai through places of worship in such an intersectional way that won the American talent show “The World’s Best” in 2019, UNESCO also recognizes the intangible elements of cultural one could “see” a note or “hear” a stone! grabbing the million dollar prize money. He stunned the heritage. In its 2003 Convention, it adopted a multilateral competition’s judges and took the world by storm with his melodic pieces as he tapped away at the piano at a mind-boggling speed. In a 2009 collaboration with the Smithsonian Institute, UNESCO made hundreds of traditional A multi-instrumentalist, Lydian can play the piano, the Out of the total 1121 monuments in the music albums and recordings available on CD, drums, and the guitar. He also breezed through Trinity UNESCO World Heritage List, India alone has streaming services, and also accessible for digital College’s piano examination, a dream college for many, 38 sites. These include 30 cultural properties, 7 downloads and library subscriptions. This list after getting trained under veteran Augustine Paul, natural sites, and 1 mixed heritage site. included “India: Ranganayaki Rajagopalan — director of the 125-year-old Madras Musical Association. Continuity in the Karaikudi Vīṇā Style”

35 36 Letters of the

In February 1924, the New York Symphony Orchestra, led by composer and conductor Water Damrosch, played Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony at New York’s Carnegie Hall. The performance was broadcast live on radio for those who couldn’t attend. And a few days later, the musicians received a letter from none other than author and activist Hellen Keller. It was an unlikely correspondence as Ms Keller had been deaf and blind from a young age.

She wrote about the deep joy and emotions she felt after “hearing” the symphony on the radio. She mentioned being surprised at feeling the vibrations, rhythm, the throb of the music, and getting enraptured by a multitude of tones. She also thanked the orchestra for the delight they brought to her and her household, and extended her gratitude to Station WEAF for broadcasting the beautiful music.

Here are a few excerpts from her description of the incident and experience:

Last night, when the family was listening to your wonderful chorus throbbed against my fingers with poignant pause and rendering of the immortal symphony, someone suggested that I flow. Then all the instruments and voices together burst put my hand on the receiver and see if I could get any of the forth—an ocean of heavenly vibration—and died away like vibrations. He unscrewed the cap, and I lightly touched the winds when the atom is spent, ending in a delicate shower of sensitive diaphragm. What was my amazement to discover that sweet notes. I could feel the urge of the music! The intertwined and intermingling vibrations from different instruments enchanted Of course, this was not “hearing” but I do know that the tones me. I could actually distinguish the cornets, the roll of the drums, and harmonies conveyed to me moods of great beauty and deep-toned violas and singing in exquisite unison. How majesty. I also sensed, or thought I did, the tender sounds of the lovely speech of the violins flowed and plowed over the nature that sing into my hand—swaying reeds and winds and the deepest tones of the other instruments! murmur of streams. As I listened, with darkness and melody, shadow and sound filling all the room, I could not help When the human voice leaped up trilling from the surge of remembering that the great composer who poured forth such a harmony, I recognized them instantly as voices. I felt the chorus flood of sweetness into the world was deaf like myself. I grow more exultant, more ecstatic, upcurving swift and marvelled at the power of his quenchless spirit by which out of flame-like, until my heart almost stood still. The women’s voices his pain he wrought such joy for others—and there I sat, feeling seemed an embodiment of all the angelic voices rushing in a with my hand the magnificent symphony which broke like a sea harmonious flood of beautiful and inspiring sound. The great upon the silent shores of his soul and mine.

37 38 Music is an intrinsic part of filmmaking. It enhances storytelling and weaves the moving pictures together, sometimes acting as just another character in the plot. Here are some movies, drama series, and documentaries that interlace and explore music in their themes.

School of Rock ( 2003 ) Begin Again ( 2013 )

Lost & Found Music Studios Series ( 2015 )

La La Land (2016) The Lion King (2019)

Hidden Drummers of India: Yesterday (2019) The Greatest Showman (2017) Documentary Series (2020)

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