Making melodious music
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:Rajesh Cherthala, with his calm and composed demeanor, look so effortless on stage. A popular face in the Indian music industry, this flautist never fails to captivate his audience.
Lured into the world of music by his brother and flautist Shaji, Rajesh’s tryst with fluting started long back. As a child, he was encouraged to pursue to his dream by his family and thereby joined Cochin Class Orchestra. Under the guidance of its organizer Balram, Rajesh started his formal training in the field of instrumental music. Later, he also trained under Sunbright Master.
Be it Indian and Western classical, Rajesh handles both styles with equal ease. Not just that, he is skilled at a variety of wind instruments like Saxophone, Wind Midi Controller, Duduk, Recorder, Melodica, Clarinet, Penny Whistle, etc. Currently a disciple of renowned flautist and Padma Vibhushan awardee Pandit Hariprasad Chowrasya, Rajesh believes that there is always something new to learn.
While his first studio recording was that conducted by violinist Thiruvizha Ullas at Kalabhavan Kochi, Rajesh was introduced into cinema by Jassie Gift in 2004. Later, he went on to play for over 300 films, completing more than 1,000 songs (not to include the albums). He has also performed in various stage shows, in and around India. Reminiscent of one such performance, he exclaims, “One of the most unforgettable moments in my performance career is when I received a standing ovation from maestros like Rajhesh Vaidhya and U Srinivas, during a performance at Chennai Music Academy.”
He does not restrict himself to shows that are all glitz and glamour. In fact, he has been a part of many charitable initiatives and socially relevant programs. He says, “While money is definitely important, it is not that which drives me to continue in this field. I feel much more content and accomplished when my music brings comfort to people. That is when it becomes meaningful.”
Notably, Rajesh rose to prominence in this field at a time when the instrument was not so popular. “Back then many swayed towards learning guitar or keyboard, however, now that is not the case. It gives me great joy when tutors and musicians call me up to say that many students have started learning this instrument and that my performances inspire them,” he adds.
He has received various awards and distinctions over the years and is now all geared up to introduce his own band. Born in Cherthala in Kerala, Rajesh lives in Kochi with his family.