is interested in taking part in conventional concerts as an accompaniment , she is more driven to ‘ breaking the patterns that already exist ’. She is trying to learn how to integrate the sound and dynamics of the Mridangam in all areas and aspects of music . For example , playing the mridangam in a string quartet or at a piano recital .
Her most recent endeavour included a trip to Dubai where she had the opportunity to perform with AR Rahman ’ s trailblazing , allfemale Fridaus Orchestra . ‘ A dream come true to be in person and perform before him ’ she says with an exhilarating tone noting the fact that her mother and brother have sung for AR Rahman . ‘ He is very keen on rhythm .’ She talks about how each and every song by AR Rahman has a subtle yet well-arranged rhythmic section working in the background . She consciously , and of course by second nature , admires all percussionists involved as well as those responsible for the arrangements in songs though they may only be conspicuous by absence to many . Examples of notable songs with such intricate and entrancing arrangements that come to her mind were Marghazhi Thingallava , Jiya Jale , Ennavale Ennavale , Soukiyama Kanne , and Minsara Kanna . experience ’ she reiterates . ‘ Usually as a percussionist , one would follow the drummer ; however , in the case of an orchestra , the conductor decides the tempo .’ What ’ s interesting is that a mere observation of the conductor ’ s expression and latent gestures may be sufficient to infer the dynamic and orchestration being communicated . The sound comes next as it takes time to travel !
‘ We can all attribute our happiness and fulfilment to the major venues we ’ ve played in or the prestigious events we ’ ve been a part of but the thing that gives me the most fulfilment is knowing I am pursuing what I am most passionate about on a day-to-day basis .’’ As she profoundly expresses gratitude , she also mentions that it is challenging at times to be intrinsically motivated . At the end of the day you are your own boss ! Meditation is also a very fundamental and integral part of her life and she ensures that it stays constant in her ever changing lifestyle ! She emphasises that even if you don ’ t get time to meditate , it is helpful to be conscious and aware of what you do regardless of what you do .
Coming back to her most recent performance in Dubai , she was absolutely enthralled to have played the Mridangam in a full fledged string orchestra with brass , woodwind and a dedicated percussion section . She played to AR sir ’ s composition Raga ’ s Dance , which was an experience on and of its own . She talked about her fascination about the entire experience of playing in a 50-women orchestra alluding to the technical complexities , challenges of coordination , and tempo that had to be in alignment over the course of the performance . It is extremely paramount to closely follow and watch the conductor without whom the entire orchestra will fall apart . ‘ I was so curious and enchanted by the entire
Rapid Fire
A song you never thought you ’ d like but happened to devour ‘ Karuthavanlam galeejam from Vettaikaran . I thought it ’ s just a fast number as it passed by initially . But trip over the Synth arrangements in it every time I listen to it ’
An artist you newly discovered ‘ Nate Smith , 6091 and this amazing albums ‘ Grebfruit ’ and ‘ Grebfruit -2 ’ by Benny Greb ’
What is your strength ? ( Music + personally ) ‘ Curiosity and passion ’
What is a weakness ? ( Music + personally ) ‘ Laziness ‘
Favorite independent artist / song ‘ Jacob Collier , Trilok Gurtu , Snarky Puppy , Plini . But as a song , I listen to ‘ Flight ’ by Anoushka Shankar ; one of my all time favorites ’
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