Crooning away to success is a 'reality'

 “Everybody wants to be an Indian Idol,” says Sandeep Joshi, secretary of Saptak. With an increasing number of reality TV shows centred around singing and music, the number of students enrolling for music classes has also increased in the city. The reason, say experts, is that youths now see music as a viable career option, and a shortcut to fame. While some argue that music learning is losing its essence, others believe there is no harm if music can fetch one a claim to fame.

Over the last two years, Saptak has seen a 50% rise in the number of students enrolling at the school. Of this, the biggest increase has been witnessed in students interested in learning classical vocals, reveals Joshi.

“With a boom in singing-based reality shows on TV, everyone from school students to retirees is coming to learn classical vocals. The parents want their children to be famous. And, it seems that such shows, which encourage youngsters to participate and become famous, are changing the essence of music learning,” he said.

However, Nrupi Khandekar, a teacher at Khandekar’s Music Classes has a different view on the situation. She affirms that while students have increased, it is for a good cause.

“In earlier times, music was not taken seriously as a profession; it was more of a hobby. May be, because there was less or no scope then, but things have changed now,” she said.

According to Khandekar, reality shows have spread awareness about music and singing as a profession. She says, “It is like creating a platform for so many beautiful voices which were not recognised earlier. I don’t deny the fact that the purpose for learning music for some might be just that such shows are a ‘shortcut to fame’.

Even so, it is good to see a level of determination in many budding singers who are inclined towards learning music or vocals.”

Bhairavi Lakhani, director of Shashikunj Academy affirms that reality shows are inspiring youths to take keen interest in music.

“Seeing the number of students enrolling with a focus on participating in reality shows, we thought of starting a special session on the same. We organised a workshop conducted by classical music experts to show them the kind of preparation that goes into reaching that level,” she said.

While classical music has seen bigger intake, modern or western music isn’t too far behind. “We have seen about 40% rise in the number of enrolments at our institute. Some Parents even make special demands to get their children trained to the level that lets them participate in reality shows,” says Hitesh Limbad, trainer with HET Music Academy.  However, Anup Phukan, proprietor of The Guitar Workshop, says internet plays an even bigger role than reality shows for music enthusiasts. It gives them free access to international-level courses.

“Reality shows do inspire students and children to participate. But, easy access to internet, where they can learn online, has instead decreased the number of students enrolling in classes.”