Passing the torch
While it’s true that artistic talent is instinctive, it is pertinent to realise that training and grooming polish an artist. Music academies are important for two main reasons: crafting the music skills of novice campaigners and perhaps more importantly engaging the youth in productive activities.
In this context, a venture of Mizmaar guitarist Kashan Admani, drummer Alfred D’mello and guitar instructor Jeremy Kenneth Vas, Spaark (School of Performing Arts and Recording, Karachi) was launched with an intimate gig at a café in Karachi.
The students performed a live set of over an hour, with songs ranging from the ’80s, a few current pop, rock and some Pakistani tracks. The list included covers of Girl on Fire (Alicia Keys), Smells Like Teen Spirit (Nirvana) and Nishaan (Noorie).
So how did the trio come up with the idea of opening an academy? “We thought establishing a music school would be a great service to the community. The venture introduces music to students of all ages interested in learning it for fun or as a career choice,” said Kashan Admani.
In order to create maestros you first need to fine-tune their aesthetics
Jeremy Kenneth Vas added, “It’s important for our musicians to set the bar high so that the next generation can take it to the next level.”
“The music scene in Pakistan is currently scattered and as senior musicians we feel that the future for upcoming talent should be more promising. Establishing institutions where music is taught will guarantee talented and technically proficient musicians and ensure the growth and sustainability of the Pakistani music industry in times to come,” said Alfred D’ Mello.