24 Mar In conversation with Rupert Avis
Now, how many of you know musicians who have Grade 8s in violin, viola, classical voice, classical guitar, piano, electric guitar, electric bass, popular music vocals, and keyboards and Grade 1s in sarangi, gayan, and Carnatic voice!
The journey of a musician is fascinating, to say the least. We have had the opportunity of interacting with musicians from across the world and each musician takes us on a journey that is unique. Recently, we had the opportunity to meet one such artist.
Dr Rupert Avis is a researcher based in the University of York. He studied at Chetham’s School of Music and holds degrees from the universities of Manchester, Cambridge and York. Dr Avis completed his AHRC-funded PhD on the significance of Western art music in contemporary, metropolitan India at the University of York.
Along with being a musician, Dr Avis is a writer who documents his experiences as well as researches on the many facets of music. His first published article explores issues related to decolonisation in bi-musical curricula, and he has several other articles under peer-review. His thesis is currently under peer-review with Routledge to be converted into a monograph.
Recently, Dr Avis conducted a workshop at the Global Music Institute. We had the opportunity to interact and engage with him on a variety of topics specifically on the symbiotic relationship between the Western and Indian classical traditions. The Western classical tradition is often distanced from the Indian classical traditions, yet this overlooks important points of symbiosis in the history of these traditions. Drawing on the work of significant scholars in the field, Rupert provided an overview of this history and encourage more nuanced understanding. The workshop was enriching and an absolute delight.
After the workshop, we had a short conversation with him to know more about his journey and inspiration.
How many years have you been working in this industry?
13
Describe your music journey to us?<
I started learning the cello in secondary school. Since then I’ve studied Music at three universities in the UK and have recently completed my PhD at the University of York.
What’s your favourite music genre? Why?
At the moment it is North Indian classical music. I’ve started learning sarangi and Carnatic violin and am discovering new techniques and music that I didn’t know previously.
What did you discuss at GMI Wednesday Forum?
Musical Encounters in India, specifically the influence of Western music.
How has the interaction with the students at GMI been for you?
It has been very positive – the students are very engaged and engaging!
Share your views on the global music industry.
I think it can be hard and competitive, but also very rewarding. I encourage the students at GMI to pursue their passions!
What do you think about GMI?
I think GMI is already a great institution and has potential to grow further as a music institution.
Where do you discover your music?
Charity shops and the internet
Music for you is…
Dialogue
What is on your playlist currently?
N Rajam
Name your favourite artist/band?
Mita Nag
One thing every music student needs to do to hone their skills?
To think as deeply and broadly about the world we live in.
One word on GMI?
Vibrant
One word about India?
Engaging
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