The Symphony Orchestra of India’s Journey Toward 'Indianisation'

Since its establishment in 2006 by Khushroo N Suntook and Marat Bisengaliev, the Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI) has been on a path to 'Indianise' the ensemble with quality. Hosting eminent musicians and evolving audiences, the SOI is set to host the prestigious Operalia competition led by Placido Domingo.

Since its formation 18 years ago, the Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI) has been under the visionary guidance of National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) chairman Khushroo N Suntook. Established in 2006 alongside violin virtuoso Marat Bisengaliev, who serves as its music director, the SOI aims to 'Indianise' its ensemble without compromising quality. Suntook's dream will be further realized in the coming weeks, as the SOI recently organized concerts featuring a blend of Indian and international musicians under the direction of eminent conductor Zubin Mehta.

'I want to Indianise the orchestra as fast as possible, but with quality,' Suntook shared. Notable conductors like Mehta have graced the SOI, creating significant interest in Western classical music within India. 'We may not have moulded our audience, but we certainly created a lot of interest,' he added. Younger audiences are increasingly attending SOI performances, a notable change from the earlier predominantly older, European, and Parsi crowds.

Despite nurturing local talent, Sunnook expressed concerns about young musicians seeking opportunities abroad. 'Many of our best students go abroad for better opportunities, which is one of the sad things,' he stated. Adding to the SOI's accolades, the NCPA is set to host the world-renowned opera competition, Operalia, in India for the first time. Founded by Spanish opera singer Placido Domingo in 1993, the competition will see Domingo conduct the SOI during the finale on September 21. Starting from September 15, this event will draw representatives from leading opera houses, marking a momentous occasion for the SOI and NCPA.

(With inputs from agencies.)