MUMBAI: Creator of the 'Mohan Veena' and Grammy award winner, Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt has enthralled with his pristine, delicate yet fiery instrumental music. Radioandmusic.com was lucky to get a quick interaction with the Grammy award winner recently.

According to you what is the significance of classical music in today’s age?

Classical music is something which doesn’t fade away. It is not something which comes and goes. It is somehow not for the masses because not many people are fond of devotional, meditative or sacred music. Music is being watched these days and not being listened to, which is very unfortunate. In today’s age, it is important to connect with classical music.

You invented the Mohan Veena which has a combination of sound and techniques of Indian traditional instruments. What was the inspiration?

I was looking for a new kind of sound in an Indian traditional instrument since long. You have to really work hard to create something innovative. It is an amalgamation of sound, singing method and techniques of Indian traditional instruments and it has the benefits of sustaining sounds.

Your music is magical. How does the melodic process work?

Melody is the first thing when it comes to Indian classical music. I have a tradition of music in my family, and we had a musical environment in our family. Music was in my blood. My parents were vocalists and since childhood the sound of music used to enthral me. In my creations, the vocal is very prominent. It is very important to sustain in one note without breaking the sound.

What is your suggestion to make classical music more interesting for youth?

I guess today’s youth are very passionate when it comes to any kind of music. But they need exposure when it comes to Indian classical music. If it is appealing and the presentation of the music is excellent, it can be significant for youth as well. Recently, I was visiting Whistling Woods International and I tried to explain the rhythmic patterns to the students. I made them sing and I enjoyed each moment along with legendary film director Subhash Ghai.

Any upcoming ventures and future plans you want to talk about?

Recently I received the GIMA Award for my ‘Moods Album’ under the category of Classical Music - Instrument in Mumbai and I will be travelling for concerts to different continents. I will be in the UK for the World Music Festival and Sydney before that for a concert.