The magic of music

The Hyderabad Youth Ensemble conducted by Joe Koster, and guided by Nicole Connolly Bhatia, saw young musicians start their World music Day performance with Nimrod of Edward Elgar, followed by Dona Nobis Pacem.

It was interesting to see the audience being invited to participate in the singing with guidance from the Deccan Voices group. Says Joe Koster of Hyderabad Western Music Foundation, “The Hyderabad Youth Ensemble is a platform for young musicians qualified with a minimum grade in Western music. Playing music as a group is all about character building, where people can learn to move in harmony with one another. In the city, there is a need for musicians to come together and explore the beauty of music. Youngsters must take up to learning instruments like Cello, Clarinet, Trumpet and French Horn.”

Thirteen-year-old Khyati Bharedwaj, is a new entrant to the ensemble. Says Khyati, “Listening to music has inspired me to take up Violin. I am a brown belt holder in Karate and have also been a national-level swimmer. Music brings in many creative thoughts. When I listen to the works of composers, some ideas keep motivating me. In one such moment, I composed my own piece, Crystals of Fire in D Minor.” Fifteen-year-old Kshiteissh Bharadwaj has been learning the violin from Mohd Abdul Quadeer. “It’s  an enriching experience to play in a group with different instrumental players. I am also learning Flute, Tabla, Sitar, the Keyboard and the Guitar, including the Hindustani music genre,” says Kshiteissh.

Aditya Bhansali has learnt the Piano, but plays the Drums with the ensemble. Nicole Connolly Bhatia from Canada, played the Key Flute during her childhood. Having settled in the city, post marriage to a Hyderabadi, she reinvented her passion for music and is the driving force that encourages young kids to join the ensemble. “I enjoy inspiring the younger generation. I have fun with the kids. Each child has a different way of grasping the subject. Some may find it easy to read, listen or learn it visually. So, teaching music should not be an academic exercise. Music has helped me meet likeminded people during my transition phase from Canada to Hyderabad,” concludes Nicole.