Indian music, with its vast and rich heritage, has always been a realm where cultural expressions and traditions intertwine beautifully. Within this vibrant tapestry, female musicians have carved out significant roles, leaving indelible marks on both classical and contemporary landscapes. Their contributions and achievements not only highlight their immense talent but also reflect their enduring influence in shaping the trajectory of Indian music. This article celebrates some of the most iconic female musicians in India, from classical virtuosos to contemporary pop stars, whose work continues ..read more

Four years ago, I wrote a column, ‘Virtuoso of the Sword and the Bow’, celebrating the life and times of a then little-known French-Caribbean composer, the first classical composer of African descent to attain widespread acclaim in European music: Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges (1745-1799). At the time I had said that “his life-story reads like a Hollywood blockbuster”: in addition to being a composer, he was a much-admired (and much-envied) virtuoso violinist, an expert athlete, the “greatest fencer in all of France”, boxer runner, ice-skater, the “best marksman in Europe”, and so ..read more

Creating a home recording studio is an exciting endeavour for any music enthusiast, whether you’re an aspiring musician, a podcaster, or an audio engineer. With advancements in technology, setting up a professional-quality studio in the comfort of your own home is more accessible than ever. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on the essential equipment needed, setup tips, and software recommendations to help you build a home recording studio that meets your needs and budget. 1. Understanding Your Needs and Budget Before diving into the specifics of equipment and setup, it’s cruci ..read more

Indian classical music, encompassing both Hindustani and Carnatic traditions, is renowned for its rich tradition of improvisation. Unlike many Western classical music forms, where compositions are meticulously notated and performed with minimal deviation, Indian classical music thrives on the spontaneous creativity of the musician. This improvisational element is a defining feature, allowing performers to explore the depths of a raga (melodic framework) and tala (rhythmic cycle) in unique and personal ways. Concept of Improvisation in Ragas and Talas Ragas A raga is more than just a scale or a ..read more

The landscape of music production has undergone a seismic shift over the past several decades, driven primarily by advancements in software technology. From the rudimentary digital audio workstations (DAWs) of the 1980s to the sophisticated, feature-rich environments of today, the evolution of music production software has democratized music creation, enabled unprecedented creative possibilities, and fundamentally transformed the music industry. This article traces the development of music production software, examining key milestones, technological innovations, and their impact on the way mus ..read more

The story of opera in India is a fascinating tale of cultural exchange. While confirming the exact debut of Western opera in India remains challenging, scholars suggest its roots trace back to the 1830s. Early performances of Mozart’s “Don Giovanni” and Rossini’s “L’italiana in Algeri” in Calcutta set the stage for opera’s gradual rise in the subcontinent. Queen Victoria’s coronation as Empress of India in 1876 marked a turning point, spurring the construction of grander venues. Bombay (now Mumbai) emerged as an operatic hub, with the Grant Road Theatre and Framjee Cowasjee Institute hosting t ..read more

Music and nature have been intertwined since the dawn of human history, creating a profound and intricate symphony that resonates deeply with the human spirit. Both music and nature possess the power to evoke emotions, tell stories, and foster connections. This article explores the multifaceted relationship between music and nature, examining how natural sounds influence music, how composers draw inspiration from the environment, and the therapeutic benefits of integrating music and nature in our lives. The Natural Origins of Music The connection between music and nature is ancient and profoun ..read more

I’ve written many times about my “summer of ’89.” 1989 was a golden year for me. I became a doctor, which meant that as an intern I was a member of the salaried workforce. I had money to buy every classical music cassette faster than Sinari’s, Magnasound or HMV could throw them at me, greatly expanding my horizons. But much more importantly, George and Barbara Trautwien, two excellent musicians, pedagogues and wonderful human beings spent most of that year in Goa. I learned so much from them, not just violin technique from Prof. George Trautwein, but about music as art and profession. With the ..read more

A young musician scrambles along a steep, rocky passage towards the daylight. Before him, a world of music and light. Below, unending absence. He has one job. He mustn’t look back. He mustn’t check to see if his wife is following. His recently deceased wife, that is—the same wife who was killed by a snake only a few days earlier and whom he has descended into the afterlife to rescue. The musician is torn by doubt, though, and he turns to look, to check if she is following. In an instant, her image fades and she is snatched back to the shadows. The young man, Orpheus, ascends alone, bereft, to ..read more

Indian classical music is a profound and richly nuanced art form with roots stretching back thousands of years. It is more than just an auditory experience; it is a spiritual journey, a deep exploration of emotions, and a sophisticated interplay of melody, rhythm, and improvisation. For the discerning audience, appreciating an Indian classical music performance involves understanding its structure, cultural context, and the intricate relationship between the performer and the listener. In this detailed exploration, we will delve into what to expect in a classical music concert, the etiquette a ..read more