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A pioneer of written music
Music is now reckoned as a part of fine schooling, with a rising number of renowned institutes urging their students to take it as an elective subject. The trend has necessitated methodical written music and a veteran Karachi-based music instructor, David Braganza, has compiled a syllabus from an assortment of books. He is supposed to be the only recognized music tutor in Pakistan who teaches the piano, guitar and violin by means of comprehensive printed lessons.
Speaking about the syllabus, David said that he has made things simpler and more exciting (10 songs using only five notes) so that students can practice without getting bored. Consequently, the dropout rate has plummeted and now some 65 per cent of those who take admission complete the term. “There is much more acceptance of music than a decade ago. Even conformist families are sending their daughters to study music now,” he says.
The music teacher believes that anybody can learn music, “The only difference is that the gifted learn faster. Everyone has a primitive association with music of a particular sort.” He urges that one should never be afraid of touching that liaison. David says he merely provides tools and the courage to embark on the exploration, inspiring devotees to create a thing of beauty. “But while experiencing music, one’s soul should enter it.”
The age of his pupils ranges anywhere from five to 65. “A 62-year-old European lady came to me and asked to learn the piano. I said why not. Later, she even gave recitals. It has nothing to do with your physical condition or social status. A student of mine with deformed fingers dexterously handles the piano keys,” says David.
Since there were no music schools back in Sixties, David Braganza gained familiarity with the piano at his aunt’s home. He has bestowed the legacy to his children and one of his daughters has been supporting altruistic groups, raising substantial funds for them by means of musical performances.
Speaking about the role of a mentor, he says that the capability to edify is a divine bequest, “You need to be extremely tolerant.” He says that for an ustad it is vital to become skilled at this. It is specially true for Urdu classical for the sole reason that despite efforts, it has yet not been converted into text.
An admirer of Mozart’s works “who is close to God”, David says that western classical music belongs to a certain era and its comprehension is not easy. “Today, so much is happening in terms of modern tunes that no one has the time to relax and enjoy it anymore.”
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