In an interview to The Times of India, composer AR Rahman has revealed some interesting things about his Berklee honorary doctorate, his music school, and his new venture as a script writer.
Excerpts:
1. On receiving the honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music, AR Rahman recalled how he had wanted to learn music at Berklee in 1992, but decided to score music for Mani Ratnam’s Roja instead. He also laughed at the irony of having his own college now, when at one point of time, he couldn’t even go to college.
2. AR Rahman Foundation, in collaboration with his KM Music Conservatory, has initiated Sunshine Orchestra, where underprivileged students are entitled to free education in music. Their aim is to start India’s own symphony orchestra which can perform across the globe. He also said that music director Ilaiyaraaja need not go abroad for symphony orchestra once their Sunshine Orchestra is setup.
3. When questioned as to what one can do to become the next Rahman, he said that anybody can surpass his records and become a new person.
Recommended
4. On penning the lyrics of Mental Manadhil for Oh Kadhal Kanmani with director Mani Ratnam, the composer added that during their jamming sessions, they both came up with random words and ended up with Mental Manadhil.
5. AR Rahman also revealed that he has been writing a script for four years now. This script will be directed by newcomer Vishwesh, who hails from Mumbai. Work on this yet to be titled film will start anytime soon.
*****