19 Feb Music is Magic and a Mystery: In conversation with Andrea
Free, beautiful, instinctive and soothing – music is defined in many ways but one thing that remains the same is that music changes lives. Andrea was nine years old when she was introduced to the world of music. Her first instrument was the guitar and she fell in love with the instrument at an early age. By the time Andrea turned 16 years old and it was time to decide her path for the future, studying music was a natural step forward. She wanted to nurture her growing ability to play music and wanted a formal education in the subject.
She enrolled in the University of Music and Performing Arts in Vienna and honed her skills in playing, writing music, experimenting with different genres and collaborating with artists. Andrea’s experience in the university opened up a world of possibilities. She met musicians which led to many collaborations and performances. Her initial experiences with music performances were at underground bars, weddings, concerts and recitals.
An artist is born
Andrea started off with the guitar but she slowly realised that her heart and talent lies in the bass guitar. The transition from the guitar to the bass was natural and gave her an opportunity to combine her love for rock and classical music. One thing led to another and Andrea decided to pursue a diploma in the bass followed by a stint at Berklee College of Music in Spain to explore her love for this gorgeous instrument.
Andrea has spent ten years understanding and exploring the music scene across the world. She struggled to find her ground, experienced the joys of being a student and also imparted knowledge to students as a teacher. In fact, just like most things, teaching has been a gradual and natural process where her former faculty members introduced her to students and her journey as a teacher began. When we asked her to describe her experience as a teacher, she said it’s a fulfilling experience. A student’s ‘aha’ moment is what she looks forward to. She believes that the real work starts when a student reaches the moment of self-realisation.
This is Andrea’s second term with us and it’s been a fulfilling and enriching journey. When we discussed the drastic difference in music education in India and elsewhere, she shared that she learnt by reading and writing music whereas Indian students learn by ear and repetition. Though this learning method is vastly different from what she is used to, she has managed to strike a fine balance. She has brought together the Berklee syllabus, the demands of jazz and how Indian students learn. The fact that Indian students are excited and enthusiastic to learn is a huge advantage.
If you have always wondered whether music is more skill than natural talent, we have been curious too. And who better to ask this question than a musician. Andrea says it’s more skill than natural ability but a combination of the two can certainly create magic. She believes that music is mysterious and magical. If you know the nuances, you will enjoy it but even if you don’t, you’ll still lose yourself in the soothing melodies.
We asked Andrea a few interesting questions and here are her answers.
One favourite track right now?
Blame it on the boogie
Which platform do you use to discover music?
Youtube
Jazz, Rock or Classical: one genre that’s your favourite?
Impossible to answer, all three
One thing that a student needs to do regularly to perfect the art of music?
Listening to music undistracted.
Favourite 90s track?
Spread your wings by Queen
If you aren’t listening to music, what are you doing?
Reading, sports, cooking
Describe Global Music Institute in one word.
Excitement
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.