Mumbai’s New Soundtrack

NSPA aims at carving out platforms for performance at public spaces,where artistes and the audience can interact,while ensuring the performers are able to earn and get noticed.

NSPA,a non-profit initiative,has brought 22 musicians of various genres together. They have been performing at Churchgate,Bandra and Borivali stations. Their job is similar to outdoor performance or busking in vogue in many countries abroad. There is a difference though. Street artistes abroad accept money offered by the audience but NSPA performers do not accept tips. They get paid by NSPA.

One-hour performances are usually divided between two artistes or bands.

The brainchild of entrepreneur Ajit Dayal,NSPA is run by a team of eight that scouts for permission from authorities and makes artistes’ roster every week.

Dayal,taking note of street artistes in cities like London and Paris realised Mumbai was missing out on this outdoor joy.

Project co-ordinator Anisha George said there is a two-fold purpose to the NSPA: “By turning public spaces into performance arenas,we take art to people. At the same time,we support artistes by helping them earn a steady income tied to performance opportunities.” A solo artiste earns Rs 1,000 for a one-hour performance and a band is paid Rs 1,500.

George said they will shortly start daily performances at Horniman Circle garden from 1 pm to 3 pm.

After a successful run with Western Railway authorities,NSPA has convinced the Central Railway authorities to grant permission to perform at CST,Dadar and Vashi stations from April 22.

Commuters are receiving the musicians with open arms,George said.

“People come forward to encourage the artistes. We don’t accept tips so people get them bottles of water. They offer to fund us. Many musicians come forward to audition with us. We started with eight artistes and now have 22,” Geroge said.

Mechanical Engineer and Carnatic music violinist Mukund Ramaswamy said,“Audience reaction is varied. Some ask you to play film music because that is all they know. Not everyone pays to go to an auditorium to listen to classical music.”

He added that surprisingly,if they like the music,some Mumbaikars don’t mind getting late for work. “Through NSPA I met other musicians who have become my closest friends and we hold regular jamming sessions,” said Ramaswamy.

Nitesh More,trained under ace percussionist Taufiq Qureshi,plays the Djembe,an African instrument. “Many have never heard of this instrument but when they see me play at the railway station,they are intrigued.”

More,who has incorporated Djembe rhythms into classical and devotional tunes,credits NSPA with taking his music to the common people who,he had earlier thought,could never be interested in his music. Charmed by his performance,three young men have even started going to him for lessons.

Going by the success of the endeavour,it seems the daily,live outdoor music is here to stay.