Amjad Ali Khan prefers world of sound to that of words

Jaipur, Dec 9 (UNI) Sarod maestro Ustad Amjad Ali Khan says he prefers the world of sound to that of words as there can no manipulation in the world of music.

The Ustad once again enthralled the audience in the pink city yesterday with his musical rhapsody at the programme 'Music in the Park'.

The programme is an effort by SPIC-MACAY to bring classical music closer to common people. It will feature more such eminent artistes in the future on the lines of the programmes being held in Delhi.

While appreciating the organiser's efforts, the Ustad told UNI, "Sarod is best played in an auditorium. In a closed room, it is more effective, more mellifluous." He, however, do not belive in laying any pre-conditions for his recitals. "Once, I even played sitting at the beach before the sea in Goa as I don't refuse when people call me," he added.

He said he was happy that sarod as an instrument was getting widely recognised, something which only more and more concerts will ensure.

Asked about the career of his sons Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, Amjad Ali said, "I am happy with the way their careers are shaping up, but they still have a long way to go." Elaborating on his sons' recent album 'Truth,' he said he had sung in one of the tracks as both Aman and Ayaan wanted it.

"Their mother Subhalakshmi has also sung a song for the album as my sons feel it is their mother who has inspired them most in their life," he added.

"By performing with my sons whenever possible, I am trying to keep the Guru-Shishya Parampara, so unique to Indian classical music, alive," the Ustad said.

Lamenting that there were no takers for this tradition in the musical world today, Amjad Ali said, "My father and Guru Haafiz Ali Khan was more of a teacher to me than anything else. We were in awe of him and always maintained a distance. He taught us to live for music rather than on music.

"For music has no religion. There can be no hide and seek in music. It's absolutely transparent and I am more than content to belong to the world of music," he added.

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