Santoor notes from Rahul Sharma

Ahead of a concert with Zakir Hussain, Rahul Sharma speaks about playing alongside the maestro and his fave genres

Q. What is playing with Zakir Hussain like?
A. In a Santoor recital, tabla has always been an accompanying instrument. We have played several times before and we also have a CD together titled, Rhythm of Love — a live recording in San Francisco. The unique aspect about today’s concert is that we are playing together after long. The music will be in an improvised format within the parameters of the chosen raga; the beauty of the music is on-stage improvisation.

Also read: Rahul Sharma talks about his inspirations and composing for Bollywood in a candid interview

Rahul Sharma at a concert. File Pic

Q. Is it easier to be a non-Bollywood musician these days?
A. I have done more than 60 non-Bollywood albums and collaborations with Grammy Award-winning artists such as Kenny G, Deep Forrest, Richard Clayderman, and yes, there are a lot more possibilities now for independent artistes. The market is more accepting of Indie artistes. The West has some amazing concert venues where we perform regularly.

Q. You have had Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle sing your compositions. As an artiste, do you prefer composing to playing live on stage?
A. I enjoy both aspects; being a composer as well as a performer. Each has its thrill. Though I feel performing live is a bigger challenge.

Also read: Rahul Sharma to give music in films after a decade

Q. What kind of music do you listen to?
A. I listen to various genres. I enjoy Pink Floyd, U2, Enya, Vangelis, Hariprasad Chaurasia and many more.

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