The Bloomsbury Festival 2023 is all set to host a mesmerising evening, uniting some of the most eminent Bengali vocalists and instrumentalists from the UK, in collaboration with the diverse musicians of the Grand Union Orchestra, who represent global musical traditions. Guided by the skilled tabla maestro, Yousuf Ali Khan, the event offers a promise of a captivating journey.
It will explore traditional melodies by Lalon and Nazrul, interwoven with soulful ragas. This distinctive musical experience will take a deep dive into the multifaceted world of Bangladesh's music, language, and cultural heritage. The performance will shine a spotlight on the acclaimed Bengali vocalist Lucy Rahman and introduce the sitar virtuoso Jonathan Mayer in his Grand Union debut.
Shanti Jayasinha, who will be wielding both the cello and the trumpet during the event, shared insights into his musical journey and his participation in the upcoming show with the orchestra in a recent conversation with Asian Voice.
Can you elaborate on your personal musical journey and that with the orchestra?
I come from a musical family. My father was a singer, and though they couldn't afford instruments, they enjoyed singing. My mother, on the other hand, came from a family with a rich musical heritage. She studied at the Royal College of Music, played the flute and the piano. So, I was exposed to different types of music.
As I pursued a science route at university, I realised that my true passion was music. I was already playing jazz, and my journey into various forms of world music began. I encountered Indian music through the Grand Union Orchestra in the 1980s. I've had the privilege of playing with Indian musicians in various contexts, traveling to India, and studying Carnatic rhythm. My background is more rooted in Hindustani music, but I'm also drawn to the intricacies of Carnatic rhythms.
The Grand Union Orchestra has been instrumental in exposing me to diverse musical cultures. We've explored Indonesian, Eastern European, Latin American, and African music, among others. Our collaborations with Chinese and Bangladeshi musicians in London have added another dimension to my musical journey. Tony Haynes, the driving force behind the orchestra, is unique in his ability to blend these diverse genres into an incredible musical fusion.
How does the orchestra explore musical choices for different shows? Does the audience demand specific impromptu performances?
For our concerts, we often have specific themes. In the case of the upcoming event, it's focused on exploring South Asian music. We hope to attract a mixed audience and not just cater to a specific community. This way, we aim to reach a broader audience, especially in East London, where we're well-known.
Regarding the audience's involvement in song selection, I haven't experienced them demanding specific songs during concerts, like in some Indian classical music performances. Our music is developed organically within the band. We might take songs from famous poets, like Bangladeshi poets, and arrange them in unique ways.
These arrangements often incorporate various rhythms, sometimes blending elements from different cultures. We're essentially creative musicians exploring different facets of music and culture through our performances.
How do work on blending the complexity of the trumpet and cello with South Asian themes? Is it a complicated process?
Indeed, it involves attentive listening and adapting to the music's nuances. Each instrument has its strengths and limitations. For example, the cello shares qualities with the violin, a common instrument in Indian music, making the transition more feasible.
As for the trumpet, while not traditionally Indian, it's essential to understand that Western instruments have been used in Indian music, Bollywood being a prime example. The process involves fusing my jazz-trained skills, improvisation, and sometimes arranging pieces with jazz harmony. It's fascinating to see how Indian melodies can transform into entirely new compositions while retaining their musical essence.
How is the event put together by the orchestra at the Bloomsbury Festival unique?
The concert's uniqueness lies in its blend of Indian and Bangladeshi melodies, mixing raags with music from other traditions. The presence of Yousuf Ali Khan on the table and Lucy Rahman’s voice add a rich layer to the music. The audience can expect a captivating experience. It's a two-way interaction; 50% is the musicians' responsibility, and the other 50% lies with the audience. This balance and live musical events create an extraordinary experience for all involved.
The event will take place at the Conway Hall, London on Friday, 20th October 2023.
