Western classical music faces challenges in gaining support and recognition in India, where Hindustani and Carnatic music are more established traditions. However, countries like China, South Korea, and Singapore have embraced Western classical music through compulsory education programs, manufacturing of instruments, and public performances. For Western classical music to develop in India, it will likely require partnerships with European organizations to provide resources and support private efforts.

1. Western Classical Music : The “PROBLEM with” and “OPPORTUNITY in” India …
In India, at the Government, State and even Social community level … there will be not assistance
nor support for Western Classical Music.
In fact you have to specify Western Classical Music. In the west if you said ‘Classical music’ it is
understood. In India it means Hindustani or Carnatic and you have to differentiate between the
two.
Another example everyone in India may have heard of and played the flute … in western classical
music this is the wood­whistle (or tin whistle). The transverse, concert flute is non­existent in
India. The Indian violin used in Carnatic music is held differently; tuned differently; the sound,
tone and timbre also vary due to manufacturing differences and sound production quality
requirements.
Why should India help or facilitate another system of music when a very highly evolved
‘Hindustani’ and ‘Carnatic’ systems of music exist. Even more so the effect of ‘Bollywood’ …
Oscars for AR Rehman and the whole Bollywood Dance to Hindu Weddings is highly exportable
world­wide. The whole world is interested and could be drawn into learning Indian Musical
Instruments and each of the above over a life­time.
Also … inherently there is a huge devotional and spiritual side to music that is important. Western
classical music will be associated with the Church, traditions, culture etc. that may not find
mainstream support in Asian cultures.
Given all this … it has to be a private non­supported effort in India. Government or State
interference would be near­zero.
However countries like China, South Korea and Singapore have embraced Western Classical
Music in a HUGE way. The most disciplined, well­trained, skilled technicians come from these
countries. Music learning is a part of compulsory education. Musical instruments are
manufactured and sold in the millions. Performances draw quality paying audiences. This despite
fairly advanced music cultures and traditions within the country.
Once a language for voice and singing is considered – the words gain significance – and with it all
the issues of “for us” or “against us”; regions, community etc. starts playing a part. Staying
instrumental with no voice could be a deliberate choice … and here Western Classical Music
offers the largest, widest and most versatile range of available options.
I personally feel any ‘Western Classical Music’ development has to be driven and supported by
efforts from particularly European Countries.
Accepting and working with Music Universities; City Orchestras; Well­wishers; Sponsors; Brand
& Product Managers are some avenues for the resources required for the development of Western
Classical Music in India.
CONTACT …
Casper Abraham
Cellphone 98450­61870
Email : casper@hri.net
Music International
62­B Modi Residency, Millers Road, Benson Town
Bangalore 560 046 INDIA
Website : http://hri.net/musicinternational