Synopsis
Lydian Nadhaswaram reflects on how Ilaiyaraaja's mentorship propelled him to create his first symphony, 'New Beginnings.' Through encouragement and constructive criticism, Ilaiyaraaja shaped Lydian's journey in classical music.Key Takeaways
- Ilaiyaraaja's guidance was pivotal in Lydian's symphonic journey.
- Lydian composed his first symphony, ‘New Beginnings’, inspired by Ilaiyaraaja.
- Constructive criticism helped Lydian refine his musical skills.
- Ilaiyaraaja's belief in Lydian's potential fueled his ambition.
- Lydian emphasizes the importance of understanding music theory.
Chennai, Mar 12 (NationPress) Lydian Nadhaswaram, recognized as ace music director Ilaiyaraaja's first and only student, has shared how the legendary Isaignani Ilaiyaraaja influenced him to create his inaugural symphony, ‘New Beginnings’.
On the historic day when Ilaiyaraaja became the first Indian to perform a western classical symphony at the Eventim Apollo theatre in London, Lydian announced via a video on his X timeline that he had composed his first symphony titled ‘New Beginnings’.
In this video, Lydian revealed Ilaiyaraaja's encouragement, stating, ‘You too must do a symphony.’ It was this motivation that led him to compose his first symphony.
When Ilaiyaraaja was asked whether he had advised Lydian to write a symphony, he responded, “Lydian was a student who came to me for learning music. Once, he told me he had composed a symphony and played a piece of music he had programmed. Within 20 to 30 seconds, I told him, ‘Why have you made this like a film background score? This is wrong. This is not a symphony. First learn what a symphony is and then compose it.”
Lydian later elaborated in an interview, reflecting on how Ilaiyaraaja’s words fueled his ambition to create a symphony.
He recounted, “Two years ago, when I attended classes, I asked him (Ilaiyaraaja), ‘Uncle, which symphony orchestra did you use for the film ‘Neethane En Ponvasantham’? I love that album.’ He responded, ‘Why? Are you going to do a symphony, Lydian?’ I said, ‘No, no uncle.’ He insisted, ‘You must not say no. You too will do a symphony. You must learn it properly and do it. You must get awards and keep it at home.’”
“Those words inspired me. They were uplifting. After that chat, a few classes later, I composed a small piece and played it for him, saying, ‘Uncle, I have composed something like a symphony. Please listen to it.’”
“He listened for 20 to 30 seconds and said, ‘This is not like a symphony, Lydian. This is like a background score. Understand what a symphony is. There are rules and regulations. It has a form, a structure. Learn well about it and create a symphony.’ I wouldn’t have accomplished this symphony without his guidance two years ago. He is the right mentor, which is why he corrected my mistakes. He motivated me to study and execute it properly. I bow my head in gratitude. If I have completed scoring this symphony, it is due to his blessings,” Lydian expressed.
