09 July,2009 10:06 AM IST | | Bhairavi Jhaveri
A quick chat with master flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia's nephew, makes us realise how easy it is to connect with God. Just listen to music, he says. His new album, Meditation Music is a keeper for agitated metro dwellers
All Indian classical raagas are based on time. If you listen to the right raag at the right time of the day, for instance, Raag Lalit during the mornings, you will enjoy it a lot more. I was keen on incorporating this in my album to make sure people can enjoy my music to the fullest.u00a0
Why did you want to produce an album for meditation purposes?
Music is the easiest way to connect with God. And meditation also seeks the same. I decided to put the two together in the hope that it can be a calming tool and provide peace of mind. Our lives in the city are ridden with moments that bog us down u00e2u0080u0093 like driving or arguing with a rickshaw driver. This music can help the individual stay composed.
Is the album only for those who understand classical?
Not at all. I have made sure everybody can enjoy it, by modernising the sound a little. All the tracks have Shlokas, but they are set to an electronic groove.
Why does the sound of the flute blend so easily with other instruments?u00a0
The flute is next to nature, after the Sarangi. Vocals and other sounds can easily be adapted into sounds with this instrument.
ALSO READ
Rakesh Chaurasia: He was a mentor for every musician of my age
We say tabla starts with 'A' for Alla Rakha and ends at 'Z' for Zakir Hussain: Rakesh Chaurasia
He’s alive till he is breathing, says Zakir Hussain’s sister
Flautist Rakesh Chaurasia enthrals Israelis at International Oud Festival in Jerusalem
Zakir Hussain, Rakesh Chaurasia join Bela Fleck, Edgar Meyer for India tour
What are you working on currently?
I am trying to explore the fusion music market, for my next album. I am dabbling in mixing the flute with all kinds of electric Western instruments and percussions.