The mellifluous notes of tabla, violin, sarangi and an array of other instruments fill the air of the classroom in Bhatkhande Music Institute Deemed University. Budding musicians and singers, during rehearsal, warmly welcome you to the incubation centre of an emphatic classical band called Bhatkhande Vrind.

In a corner, first-year students Alok Kumar Jaiswal and Chhatrapati are practicing to get a hold of the tanpura, while Saurabh and Devanand are putting in their best on the tabla.

The excitement is palpable. These students know that they will get a chance to perform as professional artistes. Parvez, a first-year student of masters of performing arts, taking a break from his flute, says, “The very thought that Bhatkhande is reviving its classical band is a wonderful feeling”.

“In addition to regular classes, being a part of Bhatkhande Vrind is a golden opportunity to learn stage management and how to establish a connection with the live audience,” says Raniththri Ishanka, a student from Sri Lanka.

“The band comprising not less than 35 students will focus on classical music while all instruments and singing will be based on raagas,” says Kamlesh Dubey, a senior faculty member at Bhatkhande Music Institute and in charge of the formation of the band.

source: http://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India Home> City> Lucknow / by Uzma Talha, TNN / August 24th, 2014