The magic of mandolin

The Indian mandolin maestro U. Rajesh, will be leading a band of world-class global musicians, at a concert in Dubai this Saturday

For renowned Indian classical music mandolin virtuoso U. Rajesh, the biggest challenge in his career, perhaps, was stepping into his late brother's shoes.
The child prodigy and musical genius U. Srinivas passed away in 2014 when he was just 45 years old. And he left a huge void behind. After all he was not only responsible for introducing the 8-string European instrument into Carnatic music, but he also left at a time when he was at the peak of his career and had become one of the most sought-after musicians for crossover music.
"It is not easy and never will be easy to be in his shoes," says U. Rajesh.
Nevertheless, U. Rajesh took on the challenge and paved his own path in the world of classical and crossover music.
Amazingly dedicated and passionate, U. Rajesh is actively involved in increasing the popularity of the mandolin worldwide. He has worked with jazz-fusion guitar legend John McLaughlin on his Grammy-nominated album Floating Point, performed with the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra, played at the Lincoln Centre in New York City and BBC Live in London. He also manages the Srinivas Institute of World Music (SIOWM), in Chennai, which imparts free lessons to youngsters. 
U. Rajesh is coming to Dubai to perform at the annual Global Fusion concert at Convention Centre, Jumeirah Beach Hotel on Saturday, February 2. Hosted by Alpen Capital and Alpen Asset Advisors, this year's event is themed Splendor of Strings and features an eclectic set of musicians from around the world, including  French guitarist Mathias Duplessy, ghatam player Giridhar Udupa and bassist Mohini Dey from India, Palestinian Oud player Tamer Abu Ghazalleh, American drummer Greg Ellis,  Khawlah Al Rayhi (violin) and Humaid Al Rayhi (cello) from the UAE and Flamenco dancer Monica Carrion from Spain. We speak to U. Rajesh to know more about his music and his concert in Dubai.
What can music lovers expect at your Dubai concert?
It is going to be an amazing concert, especially when you have some of the best musicians from the world coming together on one stage.
You come here often, what's the best thing you like about the place?
Dubai is one of the most energetic places around because of its multi-cultural nature. Of course shopping and desert safaris are fun!
What made you take up the mandolin?
My coming into music was purely incidental. I actually wanted to become a pilot, but destiny is much stronger than anything.
Can the mandolin replace the guitar in a band?
The mandolin is a complementary instrument, and works well with the guitar.
How difficult is it to fit the mandolin into Carnatic or Western classical music?
It's not difficult at all. The mandolin can fit into any kind of music. It only depends on the player.
How was it performing with one of the world's leading jazz-fusion guitarists John McLaughlin?
John McLaughlin is one of the greatest musicians and human beings, and my mentor. It was my life's dream to play with him. I thank the Almighty, and my brother for that blessing (U. Srinivas was a prominent member of McLaughlin's fusion band Remember Shakti).
Are you interested in composing for films?
I've had many movie offers, but I will do it only if it fits my taste and style.
If music is your passion, then what is your ultimate goal?
My ultimate goal is to be the best musician and perform with all the great musicians from across the world. I also support free music education.
What's a typical day for you?
My day starts with early morning rehearsals, after that, I prepare for my concerts.
What's your take on music being promoted digitally?
I think it's a very positive way to promote one's music and go with the flow of the current trends in technology.
What's your advice for someone wanting to learn the mandolin? Is it difficult?
Anyone can learn the mandolin. It requires passion and a lot of practice.
It's been nearly five years since your brother U Srinivas passed away, do you still miss him on stage?
Though it's been five years since my brother, guru and our beloved U Srinivas left us, it still feels like it has just happened. To say that I miss him on stage is an understatement, because he was everything in my life. Especially on stage. Performing alongside him was like a learning process for me.
Was it a huge challenge stepping into his shoes?
It's not easy or never will be easy to be in his shoes, it's a huge responsibility for me.
How would you like to best remember him?
He is not only my musical guru, he also taught me every aspect in my life. I am what I am because of him.
 
michael@khaleejtimes.com 

• Dubai