MAKING MUSIC

Thane Plus - Digital (Times of India Group)
Saturday, February 17, 2007

A ’generation’ of music - Dr Asha Mandpe, Thane

It is always a challenge for an upcoming artiste to prove himself or herself on stage and this is exactly what Hrishikesh Gangurde, a singer from Pune did. In front of a full house audience at a hall in Thane, he captivated everyone with his musical notes.

Swarasamwad, a Thane-based organisation held its monthly concert on February 10 at a hall in Thane, where Hrishikesh Gangurde, a singer from Pune gave a captivating vocal recital. Yogesh Deshmukh, founder of Swarsamwad said, "We provide a platform to upcoming singers who need concert experience to build their confidence and establish their name in the music field. We are happy to present the 26th such concert before the audience." .

Hrishikesh opened his performance with a Khayal Jiya to Manat Nahi, which was sung in Raga Yaman. Starting with an intricate Alap, he presented the raga using beautiful phrases and pleasant notes that filled the atmosphere. Blessed with a clear, melodious voice and with riyaz, he brought depth and expressions in his singing which impressed the audience. It was followed with Sa Sunder Badan a composition in Raga Malakaunsa following a fast rhythm Tarana. Hrishikesh concluded his performance with a Kabir Bhajan. Rohit Muzumdar accompanied him on the tabla and Anant Joshi on the harmonium.

Hrishikesh has been groomed under the tutelage of his father Purushottam Gangurde, Pandit Vikas Kashalkar and Pandit Yashwantbua Joshi. He was selected for the fellowship from Sangeet Research Academy (SRA) Kolkata and for the past five and half years, he has taken guidance from renowned singer Pandit Ulhas Kashalkar. Hrishikesh has given successful performance at Kolkata, Pune, Ranchi, Madhubani and other places.

Speaking to Thane Plus, Hrishikesh said, "Music is in my family. My father is a well-known singer and I was inclined to music from my childhood. My family heartily supported me to pursue my dream of becoming a classical singer. Though we see the influence of Western, pop and fusion music on today’s generation, I believe that still there is a vast scope for talented singers in our country and I aspire to make a career in it." Currently, under the tutelage of Pandit Vikas Kashalkar’s, Hrishikesh’s singing talent and his determination will surely help him to get name and fame.