20 Apr Students Speak: Shashwat Hota
The music community that comes across age groups, musical backgrounds and interests. The Student Speak Series amis to give a platform to their voices and stories, share what drew them to GMI, how they see their artistry maturing and their path forward.
“Music is a part of my soul now. I can’t imagine a life without music. It came to my rescue at a very difficult time of my life and it has been my constant support since then. I feel at peace, calm, when I am around music.”
Shashwat Hota is from Bhubaneswar, Odisha and he currently resides in Delhi as a vocalist and studying at GMI as part of the Artist Diploma. I shared a conversation with him about how he came to GMI and his journey as an artist. Listening to artists like Adele, Bruno Mars and Nina Simone, Shashwat feels motivated to continue working towards his craft by taking inspiration from his musical idols. “I’ve been attached to music through my father’s interest. My musical influence then was mainly derived from Indian music, eventually I grew a fondness to western music. Being at GMI I find myself getting influenced through varied genres and distinctive artists around.”
Shashwat came to GMI after completing his Bachelors in Commerce, a Masters in Business and also a few years of experience working under a corporation. “I realized at that time that working for a firm was not giving me much more than a paycheck. Music had always been a part of my life through whatever I was doing and I wished to pursue it.”
Below is a continuation of our conversation exploring Shashwat’s musical beginnings and inspirations.
Read on to learn more about Shashwat.
When did you become interested in music?
I was 10 or 11 years old when I started a liking towards music and learning it.
What drew you to study at GMI?
I have done my bachelors in commerce and then gone on to do a masters in business. I have also worked in a corporation. But what I realized in that time of working is that it isn’t giving me any returns other than a paycheck. Music had always been a part of my life through whatever I was doing. But I never had the courage to pursue it solely. I chose to apply to Berklee with no expectations at all. And when I got through, it cemented my belief that this can be my calling. And although I had gotten accepted, I did not have a scholarship in hand. I sought out options in India, which is when I got to know about GMI and their Berklee track which made my decision really easy.
A memorable experience at GMI:
Most of the forums have been memorable. The ensemble performances that I have done have been of importance. Sitting down with other musicians and jamming, brainstorming ideas and collaborating with artists has been one of my favorite things about GMI.
A fun fact about yourself:
I can whistle pretty well actually. But the downside is I constantly have to remind myself to not to do it in public
Your favorite food:
Dahi bara, a local Odisha dish. Love it!! Can have it any time of the day
If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?
Doing a job in management.
An artist that currently inspires you:
Bruno Mars
A track that currently inspires you:
Feeling Good – Nina Simone
Your musical idol:
Adele
Your dream collaboration:*
Bruno Mars
How do you spend your free time?
Watching movies/shows and playing sports
A quote that keeps you going / inspires you:*
The road is long but the belief is everything!
An instrument you wish you could play / want to learn:
Drums
We at Global Music Institute also offer courses for performances and production to fuel the passion many have for music.
Written and Edited by Naman
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