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| Edited By: Preksha Malu |Source: DNA |Updated: Apr 29, 2015, 06:20 AM IST
Jazz was an integral part of the city for decades before it faded from the entertainment scene. How does International Jazz day help the art form?
Louiz: International jazz day started in 2011 and we have had three shows at blueFROG in the last three years. Jazz has reached more than 180 countries today and every country gets to host a global concert for International Jazz Day. This time it's France, and I am trying to bring it to Mumbai too. All the years we hosted the show the audience has been well-receiving. The venue is so packed that there is no space left to stand. I am optimistic about the rising trend of jazz musicians and jazz-appreciating audiences. The reason why jazz faded was when disco and pop music took over in the 70s, but the audience wants variety now.
There are musicians and an audience for jazz in India, still it hasn't picked up. What could be the reason?
Ashok: There aren't many outlets for jazz music, because clubs and restaurants wish to play pop music. The tax structure for live entertainment is such that we can't afford to have such events. I cannot organise something like Jazz Yatra anymore. There is a 25% tax on every ticket and if the ticket is for Rs100, I have to give Rs25 to the government. I have to pay that amount even on free and complimentary tickets. Besides that I have to pay that tax on sponsorship funds too. Top artists in the world are booked a year in advance due to revival of jazz. They are paid hefty fees which we cannot match.
Louiz: the economy is bad for live gigs. Prices are exhorbitant and nobody is willing to commit long-term to invest in jazz. Live acts are fading as there is no funding. People don't pay huge amounts to watch a show and may just grab a coke or coffee and listen to music. It is not earning money for the owner of that property, so the place that could accommodate 5-6 musicians now has one DJ with a console.
Louiz, you are a Nepali from Darjeeling, are you doing anything for the Nepal Earthquake relief?
Louiz: I am composing a song written by Devika Menon, which are her feelings for the people in Nepal. Once we have made it we will put it up on Youtube.
