MUMBAI: Civil society and military organisation are often perceived to be two distinct, though interrelated, elements of modern existence. On Independence Day, the twain shall meet after flowing through distinct streams of music. Songs of Freedom, a joint staging by the Navy and the National Centre for the Performing Arts, will celebrate Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav by charting the country’s unique journey through music.
Musically directed by pianist and composer Merlin Dsouza, it will feature the Orchestra of the Armed Forces and civilian musicians, including vocalists, rappers, leading instrumentalists of various genres and also a ventriloquist. The Navy says the event will be a perfect mingling of the martial sounds of trumpets, trombones, bagpipes and drums, with civilian tunes from the guitar, violin and piano.
“I am certain this first-of-its-kind musical association between the defence forces and the NCPA will be a great success and enthral music lovers,” said Vice Admiral Ajendra Bahadur Singh. An intrinsic component of the orchestra will be the Indian Navy Band, which was formed tow years before the country gained freedom in 1947. Over the years, it has carved a unique identity for itself, regaling audiences across the globe, especially during overseas deployment of Indian warships.
Also intrinsic will be bands from the Army and the Air Force. “In the 1950s, the Indianisation of formerly British military bands took place (with the introduction) of indigenous tunes in the Indian military,” said Lt Gen HS Kahlon. “It began with the composition of a number of quick march tunes based on Indian folk melodies, and also the introduction of Indian instruments such as the santoor, sitar, bamboo flute, table and dholak.”
