New Wave: Inspire. Empower. Transform
Written by Maya Bajaj; Edited by Sohaib Durrani
Music has the power to inspire, transform and shape futures. At Global Music Institute (GMI), we believe in nurturing young talent, guiding music educators and creating immersive experiences that bridge the gap between passion and profession. This vision came to life on January 25th, 2025, with New Wave, bringing together 50+ participants from leading Delhi NCR schools, along with educators, career counselors, and industry professionals for an in-depth exploration of higher music education and careers.
Campus Exploration: A Prelude to Musical Discovery
The New Wave event kicked off with a Campus Exploration Tour, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the vibrant atmosphere of GMI. Walking through the practice rooms, performance spaces, and the recording studio, students and educators got a glimpse into what life at a contemporary music school looks like.
Following this, the Opening Ceremony set the stage for an exciting and insightful day ahead. With a warm welcome from GMI’s faculty and staff, participants were introduced to the objectives of the event.
Performance Workshops: Bridging Passion and Expertise
The heart of New Wave lay in its Performance Workshops, where students engaged directly with industry luminaries. The first session, led by the dynamic duo Jatziri Gallegos & Lucas Fixel, of GMI’s faculty, delved into the nuances of live performance, emphasizing authentic expression and stage presence. Students embraced the opportunity, stepping out of their comfort zones and discovering newfound confidence.
Later in the day, the Anirudh Varma Collective took the stage for a captivating performance, blending Indian classical and contemporary influences to showcase the power of collaboration and fusion. Led by composer and pianist Anirudh Varma, the ensemble is known for its innovative approach to Indian music, bringing together artists from diverse backgrounds to create a dynamic and evolving sound.
During the performance, Santur Kundu, one of the vocalists from the collective, introduced the students to konnakol—the art of vocalizing percussive syllables, a fundamental rhythmic tradition in South Indian Carnatic music. Meanwhile, Sree Rag , another vocalist from the collective and a member of the band Pakshee, gave a brief talk on Raag Jaijaivanti, offering insights into its melodic structure and expressive nuances.
The session not only highlighted the synergy of diverse musical elements but also gave students a deeper understanding of Indian classical concepts in a contemporary performance setting.
The excitement and enthusiasm displayed by participants reaffirmed the importance of interactive learning in music education.
Student-Led Activities: Learning by Doing
One of the highlights of New Wave was the Student Activities conducted under the guidance of GMI’s experienced faculty, Jatziri and Lucas. Participants had the opportunity to work in groups, composing rhythmic patterns and experimenting with arrangements—all while receiving feedback from seasoned professionals.
By encouraging creativity and collaboration, these activities reinforced the essence of GMI’s approach to learning: practical, immersive and deeply engaging. The energy in the room was palpable as students showcased their work, demonstrating their artistic growth.
Professional Development: Navigating the Musical Landscape
A highlight of the event was the Professional Development Session on Careers in Music, conducted by Jay Anand, Lead – Institutional Growth & Partnerships at GMI. This session was specifically designed for music educators and it illuminated the diverse pathways within the music industry. Music educators from participating schools engaged in meaningful discussions about career pathways, industry trends, addressed the challenges they face and the role of formal music education in shaping future musicians. From independent artistry and music production, to music business and education, the session shed light on the myriad possibilities available to aspiring musicians today.
Educators left the session with a renewed perspective on guiding their students towards sustainable and fulfilling careers in music, armed with practical knowledge and resources to navigate the industry.
A Confluence of Schools: Celebrating Musical Unity
The event was graced by the participation of several schools, each bringing a unique blend of talent and enthusiasm. The event fostered a sense of community among attendees, with students from different schools collaborating in workshops and educators exchanging ideas on innovative teaching methodologies. The collective energy and shared passion for music created an inspiring environment that truly embodied the spirit of New Wave.
A Symphony of Learning and Inspiration
New Wave was more than just an event—it was a celebration of music, education, and collaboration. From interactive workshops to thought-provoking discussions, every moment was designed to ignite curiosity, inspire creativity and empower young musicians to dream bigger.
As we reflect on the success of this event, we look forward to continuing our mission of fostering musical excellence through education. To all the students, teachers and counselors who made this day unforgettable—thank you for being a part of New Wave.
Until next time, keep creating, keep exploring and let music lead the way!
Looking Ahead: Embarking on a Summer of Musical Growth
For those inspired by the New Wave experience, GMI’s Summer Camp offers an extended journey into music education. This immersive program provides intensive training, collaborative projects and mentorship from industry experts. Whether you’re an aspiring performer, songwriter or producer, the summer camp is designed to refine your skills and elevate your musical journey.
Interested in joining? Learn more and secure your spot! Start by enrolling for the Summer Camp 2025, entries now open!