Music Composition....

I watched ilayaraja’s concert recently in Jaya TV and just bowled over by his talent. I have always been a big fan of him from my childhood. He is one man who does authentic music composition and perfectly fits to the title called ‘Music Director’. When director Balki was called on stage to talk a few words about him he recited how he prepares background score by hearing a scene. He adds life to the scene by getting the narration from the director and then tunes himself to give the perfect tune by directing the music. No wonder his background scores are so good as he gets into the nitty gritty details.

He relies on actual instruments which bring out sounds and also ‘n’ number of people to play the instruments to get the appropriate tune. Now that is a creative work – we have three things over here – No.1 is the actual scene or song in the narration of the film; No.2 is the lyrics which at times may be ready before a tune is ready; No.3 is you have instruments and people to get the desired music. To blend all of these and give it in a way that we all enjoy is a real magic. Software creates music by some sort of algorithm but does not have the sixth sense to predict the emotions instead throws out music by mixing whatever it has in its repository.

I always used to wonder why does he not do lot of concerts and do world tours by that way people will enjoy his music. It took me a while but think now I got the answer. Every sponsor wants to make big bucks – with Ilayaraja’s concerts you can still make lot of money but the Profit margin can be low as he needs lots of people which in turn take lot of money to get visas, lodging, food and other expenditures. Also he needs lot of instruments to get the correct sound which in turn may take lots of money for baggage. I earnestly hope he does worldwide tours by that way people like me can enjoy his music.

I like AR Rahman too and he is the pride of our nation. But I esteem Raja sir’s music very much. Awards are given by individuals and jury members and no matter what the award is I deem there is lot of factors goes into deciding who needs to get a particular award. Raja’s sir music can be matched to any music in International standards and if he did not receive any award the award is not lucky enough. His music has a big fan following and I don’t think any award can give him more happiness than people’s admiration for his music.

I consider to be blessed to hear his music and I cannot keep count of how many of my car commutes, flight travels and road trips I enjoyed his music. His background scores for ‘Mouvna Raagam’ will always remain close to my heart. I wish him lots of good health, joy and happiness and wish he keeps entertaining us with his lovely music …..