Interview: Ustad Fazal Qureshi On Paying Tribute To Ustad Allarakha

Ustad Fazal Qureshi belongs to the legendary classical music family in India. He is the son of Ustad Allarakha and his brother is world renowned tabla player Zakir Hussain. Ustad Fazal Qureshi grew up with such stalwarts in an extremely engaging and creative atmosphere. his creative synergies are reflected through his music which he has expanded to other genres such as jazz.

In memory of his father and his inestimable contribution to Indian music, Qureshi has curated and will be performing at a special concert in Mumbai called The Journey Continues.

BWW spoke with Ustad Fazal Qureshi just ahead of the big event later this month

1. It won't be an exaggeration to say that you belong to the first family of Indian tabla, Tell us about your growing up years under the guidance of your father Ustad Sahab.

My initiation in Tabla happened by chance. Those days, students used to practice at our house everyday. Sometimes I used to just play with them. My father noticed this , which lead him to make a decision to teach me. My growing up days, were full of attending my fathers concerts with Pt. Ravi Shankar and other big artists. I would sit on the stage with him. Later on, I was accompanying Zakirbhai to his concerts.

2. What role did music play in your early years. What were the inspirations that shaped your career?

Music was always on in my house. Right from early morning to late night we would have students visiting home, especially when my father was in Mumbai.....to learn and meet him. I would sit during his teaching sessions and grasp as much as I could. My fathers dedication and hard work towards his music, tabla inspired me a lot and so did the dedication of the students who came to learn from him.

3. What message would you like to share on your fathers 99th birth anniversary.

He is an epitome of rhythm, drummers have described him as the Einstein of Rhythm. Even though he was a classical musician, he ventured into other styles of music. He gave music for films, collaborated with South Indian percussionists first of its kind with Jazz, and western classical musicians. My fathers talent and hard work is an inspiration to all, his honesty towards his art is unparalleled.

4. What has been your most memorable music performance and why?

My first concert with all 3 of us on Stage -- My father , Zakirbhai and me, in London in 1986. Why? Need I say more?

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