Encouraging your kids to attend DJing classes is passé. Crossroads School of Music—a city-based institution which has been guiding budding artistes in melody, scale and rhythm for over a decade—is hoping to shift the focus via their latest programme. Band Fiesta is their 20-day workshop centred on amateur musicians, who are yearning to go professional and start their own bands.
“There’s a disturbing trend I’ve noticed in Kerala with the rise of so many new indie ensembles—industry folk love trolling new artistes via social media. But, I’d rather provide them with a systematic methodology to aid them in creating their own sound. Only then, does it make sense to lay on the constructive criticism,” says music director-turned-playback singer Alphons Joseph, who doubles up as the managing director at Crossroads.
Time and tempo
Ever heard an interpretation of the A R Rahman classic Chinna Chinna Aasai with reggae undertones? Deconstructing popular tunes into different styles is just one of the challenges at this workshop. Alphons is also working on roping in his industryfriends namely Jophy Tharakan (lyricist) and Gopi Sundar (music director) to host masterclass sessions on the application of chords, fundamentals of songwriting, stage presence and performance etiquette.
“I started off in a contemporary act called Rexband. Our ensemble had folks with strong ties to Carnatic, pop, Hindustani and hip-hop. It took us years to craft a unique sound that draws from each of our influences, without losing each individual genre’s integrity. That’s what I want to help recreate for the next generation of artistes,” explains the Aaromale vocalist.
The workshop begins on April 17.
Registration `8,000.
Details: 9895711871