Shankar Mahadevan: 'I don't think you can have a calculated approach towards learning music.'

I don't think you can have a calculated approach towards learning music.

The quote by Shankar Mahadevan, "I don't think you can have a calculated approach towards learning music," carries profound meaning and highlights the significance of a more organic and intuitive approach to musical education. Mahadevan, a renowned Indian musician and composer, suggests that music cannot be treated as a mere mathematical equation to be solved. Instead, it requires a deeper connection where one's heart and soul play a significant role.In a straightforward sense, the quote emphasizes the limitation of approaching music with a purely intellectual or logical mindset. It implies that while theory and technique are undoubtedly crucial in music, they alone are not sufficient to truly understand and master this art form. Instead, Mahadevan suggests that we must embrace a more holistic and intuitive approach, where we allow ourselves to be guided by our emotions and inner voice.This idea carries timeless significance and finds resonance not only in the world of music but also in various aspects of life. It challenges the notion that success can always be achieved through calculated and precise planning. Sometimes, the most beautiful and transformative experiences emerge when we dare to embrace the unknown, letting our passions and instincts guide us.To further delve into this concept, we can explore the philosophical concept of "Wu Wei" from ancient Chinese philosophy. Wu Wei, often translated as "effortless action," posits that the most effective courses of action often arise when we are in a state of natural flow, free from overthinking and calculation. In the context of music, this implies letting go of rigid structures and merely allowing oneself to be carried away by the melodies and rhythms.When we compare the quote by Mahadevan and the concept of Wu Wei, we can see interesting parallels. Both emphasize the significance of deeply connecting with one's inner self and surrendering to the moment. Just as a skilled musician must transcend the boundaries of sheet music and embrace improvisation, Wu Wei suggests that we must learn to trust our instincts and intuition, allowing them to guide our actions in various areas of life.This juxtaposition offers a fresh perspective on the nature of creativity and excellence. It encourages us to let go of the obsession with perfection and instead focus on authenticity and the genuine expression of our inner selves. By embracing the message of Mahadevan's quote and incorporating the wisdom of Wu Wei, we discover a path to true musical proficiency, one that transcends mere technical excellence and ventures into the realm of emotional connection and creative exploration.In conclusion, Shankar Mahadevan's quote on the calculated approach towards learning music teaches us a valuable lesson about the essence of music itself. By understanding and embracing the subtle interplay between technique and intuition, we can truly unlock the transformative power of music. Furthermore, by comparing this quote to the philosophical concept of Wu Wei, we gain a broader understanding of the importance of relinquishing control and allowing our natural instincts to guide us not only in music but also in various other aspects of life. Ultimately, we discover that true musical mastery lies in the ability to merge technical competence with heartfelt expression, creating an enchanting harmony that resonates with both the musician and the listener.