A jazz event like no other

Russian Jazz musician Igor Butman has been casting his jazz magic in India, with his last performance here being in 2014 as part of the 18-member Igor Butman Big Band. This year, Butman is back in India with his quartet, ready to outclass every other performance of his! His quartet features Oleg Akkuratov, a visually challenged pianist and vocalist from the small Russian town of Armavir. This unique jazz and classic musician has participated in the International Choir of UNESCO and is the winner of countless international contests.  The concert gets even bigger this year, as along with the annual Mumbai and Delhi concert schedules, Butman will also be performing in Goa. The Igor Butman Quartet featuring Oleg Akkuratov Live will perform on October 4, 2015 at Justas Bay 15, Odxel beach, Dona Paula. Sonali Ramaiya, Founder and Director, Roarrr Media and Public Relations, says, “We have witnessed the magnitude of the past years’ events, being the official Public Relations agency for Jazz Addicts, and the response has been overwhelming! Estimating the recall for Igor and his fan following in the Jazz music lovers’ hub – Goa, we took a plunge, thereby foraying into event management with this one.”    In conversation with Igor Butman…   Herald Café: How does it feel being back in India? Is this your first trip to Goa? Igor Butman: Every time I visit India it’s incredible. I hope to experience the same as before, being with people, playing great music, eating great food, listening to music. India has a history and art that draws me towards it. This is my fourth trip to India. I had been to Delhi, Mumbai and Calcutta but I’ve never performed in Goa, though I did have the opportunity to come to Goa to relax in its sun, sand and weather. I’m looking forward to my India trip, especially to perform in Goa; the people here are kind hearted. I have heard that Goans are jazz lovers.   HC: How different will this performance be from your previous concert?  IB: It will be different; we have a huge repertoire this time. The quartet has an incredible vocalist and pianist and we will be performing some jazz, a few Russian songs as well as original compositions. The performance of solo pianist Oleg (Akkuratov) will be an added treat.    HC: When did you journey with music start?  IB: Music came from my grandfather; he was a pianist who used to perform for a Russian band as an amateur vocalist. Hence, I was born in a musician family and I grew up surrounded by singers, especially my father. I used to always enjoy watching my father and that’s probably what made me follow in his footsteps. I was encouraged by my father, mother and grandfather. This is where my love and passion for music came from. I also watch Russian, American and Indian movies which have always had great music.    HC: As a musician, has your first love always been jazz?  IB: Actually, my first love was Russian party and rock, and Russian jazz came in third. But now, I love jazz. I enjoy listening to classical and American musicians; that is how I fell in love with jazz.  HC: What advice would you give aspiring musicians? IB: Piano is a common instrument that people choose. It is a diverse talent as it lets you play solo, or you could accompany someone, or play with vocals. The most important thing for any instrument is to practice. You play anything but stay with music, music pays with appreciation with people and you will be satisfied eventually.