It’s boom time for budding musicians

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Firaaq during a performance

From Christmas eve to December 31, the whole capital is in party mode — hopping various cafes, pubs and restaurants to eat, drink and enjoy the music of the place. It’s boom time for most young musicians in the city, as most places look for fresh talent. New bands, instrumentalists, vocalists and DJs are in demand.

“I thoroughly enjoy performing around this festive time of the year. There’s the spirit of something new in the air and it reflects in people’s positive attitude too. Today, club hopping is also about making the most of multiple experiences and I want people to consider my performance as the most memorable one through all that hopping,” says Tuheen Chakravorty, 26, a city-based tabla player, who is going to engage in jugalbandi with a DJ to house beats at the Life Caffe. The Caffe hunts for fresh talent to attract youngsters.
Talking about the benefits of performing on such platforms, vocalist BISMARC, who is set to perform with Bizzy Bee band at Royal China says, “Financially, it might not be the best bet always, but the exposure and word-of-mouth publicity created helps in the long run. It’s not just a one or two day performance but the relationship we built with the patrons and the place.”
Unofficial estimates gauge, that the artists might earn anything between `5,000-40,000 per performance. “While funds are essential to sustain a group or performer, such places also help in connecting with the right people. At one of the gigs last year, an event management guy heard us out and offered a high-profile concert, which really helped us gain a footing in Delhi,” smiles Sahil, band member, Firaaq
“Around this time of the year, most places pay decently but only when you have got the talent. A DJ has to be really creative with his set every time and with every performance. It also matters where you play because you want to make it memorable and a great start for the upcoming year,” says DJ New Moon, who will be seen playing at Raasta.
To this, adds DJ Nishant Valmbey, “I am not a Delhiite, but the crowd, party and music lovers and amazing places in it have led me to shift to Delhi and set up my career. I like to play at places which have friendly environment, a great vibe and most importantly cater to niche audience.” He will be seen playing at Cheri, Blue Frog and Out of the Box Café
It’s a win-win situation for the place and the artists. “Fresh faces always attract customers as they are eager to listen to new kind of music,” says Aashita Relan, director, Royal China.
“There’s so much talent around that the tried and tested or famous artists are only good if you’re a massive place and want to recreate the feel of a concert,” adds Ankur Sachdeva, owner, Life Caffe.