As a percussionist and composer, Trilok Gurtu is known the world over. However, very few know that he's a wine connoisseur as well. "Besides music, it's fine wine and food that excite me. I love doing concerts in Italy and France as they have fabulous vineyards out there," says Trilok, who is busy rehearsing for a concert that will be held today. Excerpts...
As a percussionist and composer, Trilok Gurtu is known the world over. However, very few know that he's a wine connoisseur as well. "Besides music, it's fine wine and food that excite me. I love doing concerts in Italy and France as they have fabulous vineyards out there," says Trilok, who is busy rehearsing for a concert that will be held today. Excerpts...
Who: Trilok Gurtu, Percussionist-composer
What: Talking about independent music
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Ghazal’s glory
I am looking forward to perform with Pankaj (Pankaj Udhas) as I have never done a concert with him earlier. He knows me since my childhood days and we’re family friends. In fact, he’s one of the few people who call me by my nickname (laughs out loud). My mother is a huge fan of his. Fusion is a very popular genre nowadays and we are trying to do something different together. I love ghazals and it will be interesting to blend ghazals with percussion.
A different voice
I feel I should not be making a lot of statements about the music scene in India as I don’t live or perform here for the better part of the year (laughs). However, I would like to say that I find it tough to get musicians to perform with me in concerts. The artistes, who do fusion music shows, adapt well to the Indian classical style but not much with experimental musicians. Almost every concert has the same set of performers to work with classical artistes. So, there’s little scope for experimental music in present times.
Desi-videshi
The main difference between audiences in India and abroad lies in the fact that those attending concerts abroad pay to attend such events while the crowd in India is a sponsored one. So, you have to give their money's worth and do something out-of-the-box every time. I am not being judgmental as I am a part of the system as well. As an artiste, you have to do your best to cater to your listeners irrespective of where you are.
Bollywood calling
I love Bollywood music. I feel there is a lot of talent out there. They know their art and how to cater to the masses. Though I don't know much, the scene seems quite exciting to me. What disappoints me at times is the fact that musicians lift tunes from other sources and pass it off as original work.
The global scene
Earlier, the international music industry was monopolised by British and American artistes. That has changed now. Many good musicians are coming out of Europe and East Europe in particular. If you see the music culture in Italy, France or Austria, it’s a lot different from the usual. Whether it’s pop, rock, funk or electronica, there are sounds that excite you as a musician.
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