When music transcends all barriers

As cadences breathe harmonic shapes into melodies; chords in unison brings us closer to the infinite. Curling solitude and innocence with utmost sincerity between notes and rhythm, music has always been an epitome of divinity and purity. For, without the delicate balance of tones and variations, mankind would have forever lingered in limbo sans hope. Awakening all senses beyond cognition, music indeed exists as a conduit for exceptional grace and elegance. As finite beings begin to transcend imposed boundaries; vibrations and sounds ascend to the infinite. And, in this journey towards a higher understanding, mankind often seeks solace in music amidst all the bedlam. As Yehudi Menuhin once said, “Music creates order out of chaos — for rhythm imposes unanimity upon the divergent, melody imposes continuity upon the disjointed, and harmony imposes compatibility upon the incongruous.” Creating a ‘new romantic’ style through a repertoire which combines his ‘trademark’ originals with classics and pop standards, Richard Clayderman, the iconic international pianist performed with a fresh degree of drama and transparency on Sunday at Banyan Tree’s concert titled Milan held at Christ University. The legendary prince of romance along with new-age Indian musician Rahul Sharma, hit new musical notes with the confluence of instruments as varied as the grand piano with one of the most traditional Indian instruments — santoor and created sheer poetry.With each note reverberating with raw enthusiasm and energy, Clayderman’s symphonies glowed with sunny disposition. Through the rich use of harmonic textures, crisp notes and extraordinary artistry; the pianist took us all on a journey of synchronised purity. Transforming brilliant techniques to unbridled creativity, Richard meticulously flavoured his tunes with melody and rhythm. Needless to say, his effervescent personality makes his concerts nothing short of spectacular. Giving a whole new meaning to the concept of detailed accuracy, his interpretation of Chariots of Fire (by Yanni) was both refreshing and enlightening. Propelled by an infectious yet benevolent charm that reflects in his performance, Richard Clayderman created history yet again by paying a beautiful tribute to noted musician and multi-instrumentalist Stevie Wonder. The musical medley included My Cherie Amour, You are the Sunshine of my Life, I just called to say I love you, Isn’t she lovely, I wish, Superstition and Sir Duke. An earnest attempt at creating a musical masterpiece, the pianist formed an integral assosiation with strings of melodies. Rustic textures and harmonising patterns of the santoor indeed have a calming effect on all senses. Releasing one from the tyranny of conscious thoughts; Rahul Sharma has proved time and again that the spiritual transcendence of Indian classical music is nourishing to say the least. The intricate sounds, mastery of strokes and tonal quality of his music too were highly commendable. Accompanied by Atul Soni on drums, Manas Chowdhury on bass guitar, Avinash Chandrachur on keyboard, Mukul Rajdev on tabla and Paras Nath on flute; Sharma’s interesting compositions were brought to life with varied sounds. And, with Chase (Confluence II), Sharma succeeded in creating a James Bond interpretation of sounds on santoor which was both pleasant and surprising. Also, not only was Dance of the Elephant God (from the album Namaste India with Kenny G) a seamless bend of energy and sounds ; but it also had a liquid tone in the introspective passages. Beaming with iridescent energy, Paras Nath (flautist) too summoned powers from beyond with his artistic intricacies. Creating a remarkable fusion of soothing French highlands and the rustic golden sands of Rajasthan deserts; Richard Clayderman and Rahul Sharma together contrived hauntingly beautiful melodies with each piece. Amongst the tracks they played Together (Confluence I), Jaisalmer (Confluence II), Ecstasy (Confluence I), Norwegian Boy (The Beatles) and Dekha Ek Khwab Toh Ye Silsile Hue deserve special mention. Richard’s sensitive strokes and sophisticated mechanisms combined with Rahul’s convincing power of expression transported one to a realm of musical tranquility.