Multilingual Concert Unites Pre-Modern Poems on Equality
Clear vocals changed language and shade during a performance at the Bangalore International Centre earlier this month. The performer, MD Pallavi, supported by guitarist Srinivas Achar, presented a concert titled Atmageete. Curated by Professor Chandan Gowda and sponsored by Vidyashilp University, the event comprised poems on equality from pre-modern India. The concert aimed to unite verses from different poetic traditions under what Chandan Gowda described as 'the common idea of equality'.
Speaking over the phone, MD Pallavi explained that every language 'has its own set of sounds.' She set all performed poems to music, ranging from works by Narayan Guru to Mir Taqi Mir, switching between languages with ease. Her rendition of Chaturvedi's Pada 186, for instance, made full use of the intonations of the language and the poem's folk roots to serve the rhythm.
Asked about her ability to switch between languages, Pallavi said she sought the help of native speakers, asking them to send her 'voice notes rendering the poem' so she could 'learn the pronunciation properly.' Historical context posed an additional challenge, though it coloured her compositions. According to her, the style of the poet, the poetic tradition, and the period the poem was written in all 'lend their own rhythm and musicality to the language.'
Pallavi comes from a family well-established in Bengaluru's theatre scene and is professionally trained in Hindustani music. She is no stranger to experimentation and described Atmageete as a welcome challenge. While she is used to thematic arrangements of songs, she enjoyed the exposure to 'various, not only poets, but also languages' that Atmageete provided.
Srinivas' collaboration with Pallavi was one of the highlights of the concert. Connective guitar solos served to maintain musical continuity, punctuating stanzas. A native of Karnataka, the guitarist brings both experience and intuitive improvisation. 'He understands Indian music very well,' said Pallavi, calling Srinivas a 'wonderful collaborator.'
