Some artistes while performing at a concert manage to put the audience in a state of trance. Moreover, the depth of any flautist's melody always manages to bring out various hues and colours of emotions. And, flautist Rajkamal N has mastered this art over the years
The artiste who first trained under S A Shashidhar at the age of six, later learnt under vocalist Neela Ramgopal.
In conversation with City Express, Rajkamal, a resident of Arehalli, spoke about current trends in the music industry and the problems faced by artistes in Carnatic classical music.
It is extremely important for an instrumentalist to have good knowledge in lyrics when it comes to compositions.
"Currently, I am learning under the guidance of Neela Ramgopal for the same reason. This also helps in conveying the right expressions and emotions," said the artiste who also said that his father Nagaraj always supported him in his endeavour throughout his life.
His passion for music drove him towards learning how to play the flute. Though he has completed his engineering and MBA, he has decided to take up music as his profession. "The classical music industry is highly competitive and I believe each and every concert is a real test," he added.
Apart from classical, Rajkamal has also performed at various fusion music concerts. "Our music has to be globalised. And, fusion allows us to pull the audience to classical concerts. Though the expressions of a composition is either improvised or altered, the form always remains the same in any fusion music concert."
When asked about competition from younger artistes he said that there are plenty of opportunities for musicians today. "Earlier, music concerts were just confined to festivals but today every organisation conducts them on a regular basis. This gives an opportunity for all young artistes to exhibit their talent."
Speaking about the prevailing problem in the industry, he said "If a music festival is conducted for 10 days, the instrumentalists get an opportunity to perform only for two days. Organisers often tell us that audiences are more keen on listening to the lyrics than enjoying the music. I think people should not have preconceived notions while enjoying music."
Besides Carnatic classical music, Rajkamal also loves listening to Hindustani classical music especially by Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, Shahid parvez, Pandit Ravishankar, Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and others. He wishes to promote the traditions of classical music and pass on the knowledge to the younger generation.