Music is the balm
LEKHA J. SHANKAR
Discovered by Zubin Mehta when she was 11 years old, Midori (left) went on to become a world-famous violinst.
Born in Osaka and settled in New York, Midori is today one of the most acclaimed violinists in the world. She was discovered as a child prodigy by conductor Zubin Mehta and asked to perform with the New York Philharmonic when she was 11 years old. Since then, Midori has evolved and performed with every major orchestra in the world.
One of Midori's passions is working with young music students. As she travels around the world, she ensures she has time to give free concerts to the youth and conduct master-classes with young talented students.
"I don't see myself as a teacher judging them, but as an artiste sharing what I've learnt with them," she says.
Her recent concert in Bangkok was a sellout after which she did a free show for 400 music students, and conducted master classes with six young and talented violinists.
Midori "guided" the youngsters over their notes and rhythms with care, understanding and spirit, qualities that characterise her own charismatic style. It was musical education of a highly personalised kind, which revealed the artiste's total involvement with the youth.
Later, she gives a few "musical tips".
What are the qualities needed for a music student to become a successful musician?
One needs talent and hard work to succeed. You can't separate one from the other. You also need to love what you are doing.
Is that the reason for your own passion and energy, after so many years as a performer?
Absolutely. I love what I'm doing, and it hasn't reduced, though I've been doing it for so many years.
Are the youth of today as interested in the classical arts, as during your time?
Classical music has been around for so long and won't die out easily.
But aren't modern youth distracted by other musical genres and entertainment forms?
I always maintain that one should do as many things as possible, to evolve. I perform, teach and also study Psychology at the Varsity. I think it's good for the youngsters today to be involved in a variety of activities and broaden their horizon.
How important is parental support and encouragement?
Very important. My mother played the violin at home and inspired me from a very young age.
Are Asian music-students different from the Western kids in any way?
Not really, but of late, I find many more Asian youngsters registering at my Music Foundation in New York, than before.
How many Foundations do you have?
I have three — two for music students (in New York and Tokyo), and one for the outreach-community.
I want music to reach out to everyone, including those who cannot afford it.
Are you familiar with Indian music?
I've listened to the sitar music of Ravi Shankar and enjoyed it a lot. I haven't been to India but would love to play there. I hear a lot of youngsters do classical music there.
Do you feel more Asian than Western?
I've lived in New York for 23 years and feel like one of them! Music integrates everyone.
Is music a balm for today's violence-ridden world?
Music is a balm for all worlds and for all times.
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