Interview: Sarangi Player Murad Ali Of Rebel Diwana Talks About Fusion Music

In the past few years, with the coming up of fusion music, a new Indian generation is looking at classical music with a renewed interest.

Young exponents of traditional Indian forms of music such as Murad Ali, further reaffirm the belief that classical music in all its authenticity even when presented in a contemporary avatar will continue to flourish and fascinate.

Young Murad Ali, who plays sarangi and also frequently collaborates with western artists such as french musician Titi Robin talks about the future of classical music with BWW

1. Why do you feel there has been a dwindling interest amongst the youth when it comes to classical music?

Indian classical music is a labor of love. It requires intense patience and practice and naturally not everyone can commit to that level of dedication. Having said that, I am happy to observe that many youngsters are fascinated by our rich history and are going beyond te obvious in bringing back our folk music or traditional instruments.

2. What do you think about fusion music?

I would say fusion music has been around longer than we imagine. in fact even during the British raj when Indian musicians played along with the english men, they were creating fusion. The 60's and 70s saw a global phenomenon in the form of fusion with Pandit Ravishankar taking Indian music to global audiences. The exchange has always been there but what remains important to see is that fusion enhances the music experience instead of diluting a particular form, which too has sadly been happening. We need to understand the basics first to collaborate with any other genre.

3. Which artists have left an impression on you?

I would say Smt Shubha Mudgal ji and Ustad Rashid Khan Sahab have lent an inestimable impression on my music. I respect and admire them immensely.

4. Tell us about your international collaborations

I have recorded sarangi music for Hollywood films such as Dance of the West and West is West. We have been working with many International Artists and have collaborated with a band called Les Rives, composed by famous french artist Titi Robin. Many musicians from various parts of the world such as Morocco, Turkey, Brazil etc form a part of the group. The fact that all the different artists bring along a definite synergy shows that music can travel beyond boundaries. All one needs is to appreciate each others' sensibility and make music together

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