The collaborative sounds of YUGMA
Indian classical Violin maestro Ganesh Rajagopalan’s latest imaginative collaboration is YUGMA, recorded with maestro Christophe Chagnard conducting the Northwest Sinfonietta in July 2023 in the acoustics of the Lagerquist Concert Hall at Tacoma, Washington’s Mary Baker Russell Music Center.
In this exclusive interview with India Currents, Rajagopalan talks about the inspiration behind the collaboration, his earliest musical influences, his music schools, and being the only Indian violin player to have won a Grammy.
IC: Tell us about the idea and inspiration behind your latest collaboration YUGMA.
GR: The collaboration YUGMA was inspired by the concept of unity and harmony in diversity. The word ‘yugma’ itself means ‘pair’ or ‘twin’ or ‘confluence’ in Sanskrit, symbolizing the coming together of different elements to create something beautiful. This project aims to blend traditional Indian classical music with contemporary genres, creating a unique soundscape that appeals to diverse audiences. The inspiration behind YUGMA was to explore the synergies between various musical styles and traditions and to demonstrate how music can transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.
IC: Tell us more about your original composition Hamsadwani Ragapravaham.
GR: Hamsadwani Ragapravaham is a composition that showcases the beauty and versatility of the Hamsadwani raga, a raga that evokes feelings of auspiciousness and joy. This piece is structured to highlight the intricate patterns and melodic richness of the raga while incorporating innovative rhythmic and harmonic elements. The composition is a testament to the depth and complexity of Indian classical music, designed to engage and captivate both traditional connoisseurs and new listeners.
IC: You began playing the violin at the age of 7. Who are some of your earliest musical influences?
GR: Beginning to play the violin at the age of 7, I was deeply influenced by several legendary musicians. Early on, I was inspired by my guru and mentor, my Dad, Shri T.S. Rajagopalan whose profound understanding and innovative approach to Carnatic music shaped my musical foundation. Other influences include the virtuosity of violinists like Yehudi Menuhin and Itzhak Perlman, and listening to Western classical music orchestras provided a broader perspective on the instrument’s capabilities. Additionally, Indian violin maestros, Nadaswaram vidwans, and world musicians like Pandit Ravi Shankar played a crucial role in shaping my appreciation for Indian classical music’s expressive depth.
IC: Tell us about some of the scores you have created for film, theatre, and dance productions.
GR: My solo violin performances in numerous film soundtracks are both popular and noteworthy. My work in scoring for film, theatre, and dance has been an exciting journey of blending visual storytelling with musical expression.
The films I have scored music for include Dance Like a Man (National Award), Lessons in Forgetting with my brother Kumaresh (Award for Best Background Score), Chandrikaiyin Kathai (TV movie), and Sri Ragam (TV show). The dance ballets include Gajamukha, a collaboration with a renowned dancer in the US, Chakra with Parvathi Ravi Ghantasala, Maya Raavan with actor/dancer Shobana.
Additionally, my music, along with that of my brother Kumaresh, has been used extensively in short movies, advertisements, and other media outlets.
IC: Tell us more about the music schools you have founded in Portland, Oregon, and Seattle.
GR: The music schools I founded in Portland, Oregon, and Seattle aim to nurture and promote the rich heritage of Indian classical music. I have designed a unique curriculum to help students understand and learn violin playing in a more holistic way. With the support of dedicated music enthusiasts, I have also started a non-profit, Temple of Music, which hosts workshops, masterclasses, and performances by renowned artists. This initiative has created a vibrant community of learners and enthusiasts dedicated to the pursuit of musical excellence. Additionally, I have formed the Swara Yoga Ensemble, consisting of my students, which regularly performs at various festivals in and around Washington.
IC: You also play with Zakir Hussain and John McLaughlin in the ground breaking fusion ensemble, Shakti. Tell us more.
GR: Playing with Ustad Zakir Hussain and John McLaughlin along with Shankar Mahadevan and Selva Ganesh in the groundbreaking fusion ensemble Shakti has been an exhilarating experience. Shakti represents a unique fusion of Indian classical music and jazz, creating a dynamic and innovative sound that has captivated audiences worldwide. The collaboration with such legendary musicians has been profoundly inspiring, allowing us to push the boundaries of our respective genres and create music that is both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly contemporary. The energy and chemistry within the group have led to some truly magical performances.
IC: What was it like becoming the only Indian violin player to have won a Grammy?
GR: Thanks to Shakti and our memorable album This Moment, I became the first Indian violin player to win a Grammy. This achievement is a moment of immense pride and fulfillment, recognizing years of dedication and hard work. It highlights the global appeal and significance of Indian classical music, bringing greater visibility to the rich tradition of Indian violin playing. The award has opened up new opportunities for cross-cultural collaborations and stands as a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people from around the world.
IC: What are you working on next?
GR: Now after the launch of YUGMA, I am in the process of looking out for collaborations. I am also trying to expand the sound spectrum of Indian music, with these collaborations. I am working on a new single with my friend Marina Albero, a jazz pianist, an ode to the rain in Seattle.