Her world is her music
UMITA Kalyan, 40, a music teacher/student at Drisha Music Academy recently hosted Evolution, a festival in Joburg highlighting the diverse Indian music styles.
How did you get into this profession?
I have been singing for many years since I moved to Durban in 1993 from Louis Trichardt, Polokwane. I joined the Tansen Nepaul Show band and I am still with them… I have to thank my guruji in music, Shrimati Monali Shome, for having seeing my potential to teach Hindustani classical music to beginners. I started teaching four years ago. I take classes under the guidance of my guru, Guruji Monali Shome, who started the academy when she moved from India 10 years ago.
What projects do you have lined up this year?
My focus lies in the academy’s exams in Hindustani Sangeet. I am excited as it is an internationally recognised certificate. The academy is affiliated to performing arts University Pracheen Kala Kendra in handigargh. I have also started a project to record a CD – a tribute to legendary singer Kishore Kumar, but due to time constraints it is on hold.
What’s your most memorable experience?
My wedding and the birth of my two kids, Bihaag and Himani Nepaul. Also a multitude of my big music extravaganzas.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Finding time being a housewife, seeing to my children, assisting my parents who live with me, running an online business, teaching music to my students and performing.
How do you relax before a set/show?
There is no time to relax, but I try not to talk a lot. I take things positively, one step at a time.
What misconception about your career would you like to clear up?
Most people think I am a Bollywood singer, but it is not what I prefer doing.
What is your biggest achievement to date?
To have sung live on stage. Performances for fundraisers and charity work. Also singing in South African movies.
What is your dream/goal?
To see the academy become a fully fledged university of performing arts in South Africa.
How do you juggle everything?
I start my day at 4am. I try my best to get the cooking and household chores done. In between, get my kids ready for school. I then prepare lessons for my music classes. I also spend time on my online business as I have to update information daily. I then prepare for any events we may be holding at the weekend. It’s tough, but I manage somehow.
What advice do you have for aspiring singers?
If you really are interested, it is important to understand the languages you choose to sing in, as well as correct pronunciations of lyrics. One important fact is to get some formal study and training in classical music… this is the basis and foundation of music. One needs to be dedicated and will have to make sacrifices if you would like to be in the music world.
What is your favourite Sunday pastime?
Spending time with my children and husband.