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In episode 30 ADOR LOVESHOTS, relish this conversation between Udit Shah - CEO of ADOR Dating, and Dipesh Varma - Rhythm and Percussion Expert.
Check out more conversations, facts, and blogs.
Please share a brief about you and your journey in following your passion for becoming a Musician.
I am a Percussionist, Rhythm Arranger & Composer. Student of legendary percussionist and composer Ustad Taufiq Qureshi. I work a lot in the Hindi film music industry as well as the Indian classical and fusion music industry. I have collaborated with some of the finest composers, singers, and classical and fusion artists of the country such as A. R. Rahman, Ustad Zakir Hussain, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Shankar Ehsaan Loy, Amaal Mallik, Ajay Atul, Vishal and Shekhar, Pritam, Neeti Mohan, Farhan Akhtar, Shalmali Kholgade, Niladri Kumar, Ranjit Barot, Ravi Chary, Taufiq Qureshi, Sridar Parthasarthy, etc. I started learning rhythms at the age of 6. My father was a singer but I was attracted to Rhythms. Started performing with my father at the age of 8. After that, I played outside with other artists in an orchestra, Chowki, Jagran, Navratri, etc. I never used to think about anything else than rhythms. I had to bunk my school for shows. Music was always there in the family.
You have been an expert in multiple instruments; how have you managed to learn the same in a short period?
As I said, it’s been more than 20 years since I’m learning rhythms. Percussion is a vast genre. You have so many instruments to explore. I’m deeply grateful to my guru, Ustad Taufiq Qureshi, who accepted me as his student and taught me how to play a variety of instruments. He opened a whole new world in front of me to explore.
One quote that captures your journey so far?
“Miles to go before I sleep” I always find that this quote captures my journey so far.
One reason that you will give to every young person to learn at least one instrument in the field of music?
It is very important to learn any instrument whether it’s a melodic instrument or a rhythmic instrument. You get the insight into that particular instrument and it allows your mind to experiment and explore. It also teaches you the discipline that is required in music and life.
How a young person can start their journey of learning any instrument these days from their home at no or minimal cost?
The Internet and especially Youtube has become a great source of learning nowadays at no cost or minimal cost. People who are unable to spend can learn from online sessions or on YouTube.
There is a misconception that following your heart doesn’t help you become financially independent. Can you help us break this myth by explaining to us the growth of your journey?
Your inner guts can never go wrong. If you feel like doing something then I would suggest just going for it. It’s not about whether you will succeed in it but it will give you an experience that will make you a better person in life. My parents have always supported me whenever I have followed my heart. I won’t say that I succeeded all the time but at least it gave me satisfaction that I tried or made an effort.
Fun and Rapid Fire Round on Ador Loveshots.
Udit Shah: One song that you will never get bored of? Dipesh Verma: It's difficult to choose one but Hotel California by the Eagles is a song that I keep listening to and can never get bored of.
Udit Shah: Your favorite Indian music celeb? Dipesh Verma: My Guru Ustad Taufiq Qureshi Ji and God of Tabla, Zakir Hussain Ji.
Udit Shah If you had a chance to date one Global music celebrity.
Dipesh Verma: It would be Taylor Swift.
Udit Shah: Top 2 songs that you will play to impress your first date. Dipesh Verma : 'Abhi Na Jao Chhod Kar' and 'Tum ko Dekha Toh Ye Khayal Aaya'
Udit Shah: One music event that you will like to visit on your date? Dipesh Verma: It would either be a Classical concert or a Ghazal evening. Thank you for this lovely conversation!