Two childhood friends from Vadodara have introduced a novel musical concept called 'Swind,' blending the sitar and saxophone in a serene performance on the Narmada River near Malsar village, Dabhoi. The duo, Bharat Desai and Dr Balkrushna Soni, both 57, recorded their rendition of 'Sawan Ka Mahina' on a boat, creating a sound that merges Indian classical strings with Western wind instruments.
Origins of Swind
Desai, an electronics engineer and sitar player, coined the term 'Swind' by combining 'string' and 'wind.' He explained, 'Swind is an entirely new concept that brings together two instruments from different musical cultures and allows them to converse while preserving their individual identities.' The idea was born from their shared passion for music and a desire to create something unique that neither had seen attempted in a structured form.
The Musicians Behind the Fusion
Bharat Desai holds a doctorate in enhancing the sitar's utility in contemporary performances and invented the futuristic string instrument 'BharaTar.' He balances technology with music, having completed a postgraduate degree in Indian classical instrumental music. Dr Balkrushna Soni, a consultant physician with over 30 years of experience, taught himself the saxophone and explored various genres. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his hospital was among the first private facilities in Vadodara to admit patients. Soni remarked, 'Medicine teaches you to listen carefully to people. Music teaches you to listen carefully to sound. Both require patience, discipline and sensitivity.'
Impact and Future Releases
Several Swind recordings have been released on YouTube, with more expected later this year. The performances highlight the dialogue between the sitar and saxophone, each maintaining its distinct identity while harmonizing together. The concept has drawn attention for its innovative approach to cross-cultural musical collaboration.
