Bach - The Well Tempered Clavier

Beneath the shining malls and office buildings in Singapore, there lies old Singapore. Singapore where classical traditions are kept alive in temples, churches and concert halls. Last Friday I was transported in this beautiful world via a classical Bach concert. The pianist was Angela Hewitt and she took me on a beautiful artistic journey that left me totally inspired and elated.

As a classical Indian dancer one can learn so much by watching other classical artists. There is something that is common among all great classical traditions. A respect and reverence for technique as well as a celebration of the grand spirit of the lineage. In a world of instant glamour and pop princesses, it is rare to see a total commitment to classical craft as well as an audience filled with young aspiring musicians.

Like many classical artists, memory is key to a great performance. Angela Hewitt aged 49 gave 5 hrs of piano recital (split over two days) purely from memory. No notes. Nothing. She said that she has spent the last 11 years memorizing and practicing this piece. And the ability to free oneself form the notes elevated her performance to an entirely new level. Transcending technique and muscular memory are what really separates a performer from an artist. The great artists that I have seen become one with the music, the musical instrument and the dance. There is a feeling of inseparability. There is a sense of true oneness of spirit and technique. It reminded me of many of the finest classical indian dancers in India who memorize chunks of old composition and perform it flawlessly from memory while interpreting it with their own signature touch. A rare gift and a truly remarkable one.