Behind the Scenes: Making of “Shanthi”

Behind the Scenes: Making of “Shanthi”

by | Dec 19, 2024 | Uncategorised

The journey of creating “Shanthi,” my second VS Pop track, has been an enlightening experience, blending lyrical storytelling, serene melodies, and a classical score that reflects inner peace. This blog offers a glimpse into the inspiration, composition process, and the classical score sheet that brings the track to life.

The Inspiration

“Shanthi” is a musical exploration of harmony and tranquility. The lyrics, rooted in nature and human connection, evoke a sense of coming home—both physically and spiritually. The refrain “Om Shanti” is more than just words; it’s a mantra that encapsulates the essence of peace and unity. Drawing from my own meditative practices and the philosophy behind VS Pop (Very Smooth Pop), the track aims to bridge the gap between pop sensibilities and classical depth.

The Lyrics

The lyrics of “Shanthi” serve as the foundation of the track, combining simplicity with profound meaning:

Verse 1:

  • when the rain starts to fall on my skin
  • when the wind passes right over my face
  • when the sun starts to shine all the way Only then will we know we are close to home

Chorus:

  • We can live our lives
  • We still have some time
  • We find inner peace, inner peace in our lives

Verse 2:

  • when the rain starts to fall to the ground
  • when the wind passes right through my hands
  • when the sun starts to shine I still feel the love

Mantra:

  • Om Shanti

Compositional Approach

“Shanthi” is composed in a blend of modern pop structures and classical underpinnings. While the verses and choruses are straightforward and catchy, the score features intricate orchestral elements, designed to complement the lyrics and enhance the meditative atmosphere.

Key Elements of the Score:

  1. Instrumentation:
    • Strings: A lush string section forms the backbone of the track, weaving in harmonies that reflect the ebb and flow of nature.
    • Piano: Gentle arpeggios and subtle chords provide a grounding presence.
    • Flute: Melodic lines evoke the lightness of wind and air, symbolizing freedom and connection.
    • Percussion: Minimalistic and soft, the percussion adds texture without overpowering the tranquil mood.
  2. Melodic Themes:
    • The mantra “Om Shanti” is set to a soothing, repetitive motif that resonates throughout the track, symbolizing continuity and peace.
    • The verses are underscored by a rising melodic progression, reflecting the journey towards inner peace.
  3. Harmonic Choices:
    • The composition alternates between major and minor keys to mirror the duality of life’s challenges and resolutions.
    • Open intervals in the strings create a sense of vastness, akin to nature’s boundless beauty.

Challenges and Insights

Creating “Shanthi” required balancing the spiritual essence of the lyrics with the accessibility of VS Pop. The primary challenge was ensuring the classical score’s richness didn’t overshadow the simplicity of the song. By carefully layering instruments and focusing on dynamics, the track achieves a harmonious blend.

Another key aspect was infusing the “Om Shanti” mantra with authenticity. Drawing from traditional Indian chants, I aimed to respect its cultural significance while adapting it to the VS Pop style.

The Classical Score Sheet

The classical score sheet for “Shanthi” is a detailed representation of the orchestration and arrangement. It includes:

  • Full Score: Featuring all parts—strings, piano, flute, and percussion.
  • Annotations: Marking dynamic shifts, articulations, and expressive techniques.
  • Mantra Integration: Notated with precise timing to ensure seamless integration with the vocal parts.

The score is available for purchase and download on platforms like IMSLP and Sheet Music Plus, allowing musicians and enthusiasts to explore and recreate “Shanthi” in their own interpretations.

The Making of “Bees Orchestra” – A Symphony of Nature and Sound

The Making of “Bees Orchestra” – A Symphony of Nature and Sound

by | Dec 17, 2024 | Bees Orchestra

Introduction

In the realm of classical music, composers have often sought inspiration from nature. From Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony, the interplay of sound and nature has been a timeless theme. With Op. 10 No. 4 – Bees Orchestra, I ventured into a unique creative challenge: translating the movement, harmony, and spirit of bees into an orchestral composition. This piece exemplifies my philosophy of representing nature through pure music without relying on sound effects or modern sound design tools. The result is a work that captures the buzzing energy, intricate organization, and rhythmic dance of bees through a classical lens.

Conceptualizing the Bees

The idea of Bees Orchestra came from a simple observation: the way bees work in harmony to achieve a common goal mirrors the structure of an orchestra. Each bee has a role to play, just like each instrument in an ensemble. The buzzing sound, which we perceive as chaotic, is, in fact, an organized hum – a symphony of purpose and rhythm.

I wanted to replicate:

  • The Swarm: Fast, swirling movements as bees dart through the air.
  • The Hive’s Order: A sense of harmony where everything functions seamlessly.
  • Individual Patterns: The delicate flight of a single bee weaving in and out of the swarm.

To achieve this, I relied purely on orchestral instruments to emulate the essence of bees, drawing from both tonal colors and rhythmic textures.

The Orchestral Textures

  1. Strings The string section became the core of the composition. Violins and violas create rapid tremolos to mimic the constant hum of buzzing wings. Techniques like spiccato and pizzicato capture the quick, darting movements of individual bees.
    • Tremolos: Used to sustain the buzzing atmosphere.
    • Quick Ascending/Descending Runs: Represent swarming patterns.
  2. Woodwinds Woodwinds add life and brightness to the piece. Flutes and clarinets take on the role of delicate, fluttering wings, creating light, whimsical lines that weave through the string section. Oboes and bassoons provide contrasting weight, hinting at the structured hum of the hive.
  3. Brass The brass section underscores moments of grandeur and power. Horns swell to depict the unity and strength of the swarm, while trumpets burst in short fanfares to symbolize sudden bursts of movement.
  4. Percussion Rhythmic motion drives the entire piece. Timpani rolls and light cymbal crashes evoke the underlying pulse of the hive, while tambourines and triangles add sparkle to highlight individual bees in motion.

Structure of the Composition

The composition is divided into three interconnected sections:

  1. The Awakening The piece begins softly, introducing the tremolo strings to establish the hum of the hive. Gradually, woodwinds and brass join in, mimicking the bees stirring to life as the sun rises. The rhythm is gentle yet restless, building anticipation.
  2. The Swarm in Motion This is the most energetic part of the piece. Fast runs in the strings and cascading woodwind lines depict the bees’ frantic yet purposeful flight. The orchestra swells with complex rhythms, showcasing the chaotic beauty of nature’s order.
  3. The Return to the Hive The final section slows the pace, transitioning into a warm and harmonious resolution. The buzzing softens as the bees return to their hive, and the music resolves into a sense of calm and accomplishment.

Philosophy Behind the Composition

In a world where modern tools can easily replicate nature, I deliberately chose not to use any sound design elements. Instead, I relied on the rich textures of orchestral instruments to mimic natural sounds. This aligns with my belief that classical music, in its purest form, can represent any phenomenon.

The hum of bees, their movement, and their harmony are not sounds to be imitated – they are rhythms and emotions waiting to be translated into music. By carefully layering instruments and rhythms, I achieved an organic soundscape that feels alive and dynamic.

Reflections on the Process

Creating Bees Orchestra was both challenging and rewarding. The greatest challenge lay in balancing chaos and structure – ensuring that the buzzing hum felt natural without overwhelming the listener. It taught me to trust the orchestra’s ability to tell a story purely through sound, a principle I hold dear.

The piece stands as a testament to my approach to music: drawing inspiration from nature’s simplicity and translating it into the depth of orchestral composition. Whether it’s the subtle tremor of a bee’s wings or the majestic unity of a swarm, every note in Bees Orchestra reflects my deep respect for the natural world and the power of classical music.

Conclusion

Op. 10 No. 4 – Bees Orchestra is more than a composition; it is an exploration of how music can bring nature to life. By combining intricate orchestral textures with the philosophy of translating natural phenomena into music, I hope this piece resonates with listeners and inspires them to find harmony in the world around them.

For those who wish to experience the buzzing beauty of the Bees Orchestra, it is available on my Bandcamp, alongside sheet music for fellow musicians who wish to perform or study the piece.

https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/en/product/op-10-no-4-bees-orchestra-22925664.html

The Emergence of VS Pop: Redefining Musical Smoothness

by | Dec 11, 2024 | Uncategorised

In the world of music, innovation thrives on the blending of tradition and modernity. Enter VS Pop, a genre conceived by CR Srikanth, a versatile composer whose passion for authenticity and originality fuels his every note. VS Pop—short for “Very Smooth Pop”—is more than just a genre; it’s a philosophy, a trademarked brand, and a testament to the power of artistic authenticity in a saturated music industry.

The Genesis of VS Pop

VS Pop was born out of CR Srikanth’s desire to carve a niche in the heavily commercialized pop and EDM spaces. As a composer deeply rooted in classical traditions yet adept at contemporary styles, Srikanth envisioned a genre that transcends conventional pop boundaries. The core idea? To create music that is smooth, harmonious, and layered with the depth of classical intricacies without compromising its appeal to modern audiences.

VS Pop stands as a response to the overdose of electronic and overly commercialized pop productions. Instead of following trends, it adheres to a principle of balance, offering listeners a refreshing mix of classical sophistication and modern simplicity.

Crafting VS Pop: The Art and Science

The making of VS Pop involves a meticulous layering process. Each track begins with a classical foundation, often drawn from Srikanth’s extensive repertoire of symphonies, nocturnes, and orchestral suites. These elements are then seamlessly integrated with contemporary pop structures, creating a fusion that retains the emotional depth of classical music while embracing the accessibility of pop.

Key components of VS Pop include:

  1. Smooth Melodies: Central to VS Pop is the creation of melodies that are emotionally evocative yet soothing, designed to linger in the listener’s mind.

  2. Rich Orchestration: Borrowing from classical traditions, VS Pop tracks often feature lush orchestral arrangements that add a layer of sophistication.

  3. Modern Beats: To ensure relevance, contemporary rhythms and beats are incorporated, but always in a way that complements rather than overpowers the composition.

  4. Authentic Storytelling: Every VS Pop track tells a story, whether it’s through lyrics, instrumental motifs, or a combination of both.

The Ideology Behind VS Pop

At its heart, VS Pop is about staying true to one’s artistic identity. It’s a rejection of trends that prioritize commercial success over artistic integrity. Instead, VS Pop champions the idea that music can be both original and relatable, both sophisticated and enjoyable.

This ideology is reflected in Srikanth’s refusal to engage in over-commercialization or hyped promotions. He believes in letting the music speak for itself, focusing on organic growth and genuine connections with listeners.

Trademarking VS Pop

Recognizing the uniqueness of VS Pop, CR Srikanth has taken the essential step of trademarking the genre. This not only protects the integrity of VS Pop but also establishes it as a distinct brand in the music industry. The trademark ensures that VS Pop remains synonymous with quality, originality, and the smooth musical experience that defines it.

Trademarking also opens doors for future opportunities, such as licensing deals, workshops, and collaborations. It positions VS Pop as not just a genre but a brand with global potential.

The Future of VS Pop

With a carefully planned strategy, CR Srikanth aims to grow VS Pop as both a genre and a movement. Key initiatives include:

  1. Global Promotion: Leveraging press releases, social media, and collaborations to bring VS Pop to international audiences.

  2. Community Building: Encouraging fellow musicians to explore and contribute to the VS Pop genre, fostering a sense of community.

  3. Educational Endeavors: Organizing workshops and masterclasses to share the principles and techniques behind VS Pop.

  4. Creative Collaborations: Partnering with artists across genres to expand the reach and versatility of VS Pop.

Experience the VS Pop Difference

VS Pop is more than just a style of music; it’s an experience. It’s about creating a space where the richness of classical music meets the charm of pop, resulting in tracks that resonate with audiences across generations. With its emphasis on smoothness, authenticity, and originality, VS Pop stands poised to redefine the musical landscape.

For CR Srikanth, VS Pop isn’t just a genre; it’s a legacy. Join the journey, explore the music, and discover the unparalleled smoothness of VS Pop. Together, let’s celebrate a new era of music—one that is as timeless as it is contemporary.

 

VS Pop™ (“Very Smooth Pop”): A Trademarked Musical Innovation

Created by CR Srikanth, VS Pop™ (“Very Smooth Pop”)  is a trademarked genre that blends classical sophistication with modern pop elements. This genre emphasizes smooth melodies, rich orchestration, and authentic storytelling, offering a refreshing alternative to over-commercialized music trends.

Trademarked to protect its uniqueness, VS Pop positions itself as a global brand, opening doors for licensing, collaborations, and workshops. As its creator, Srikanth ensures that every piece reflects his principles of originality and balance, making VS Pop not just a genre but a legacy in the making.

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A Comprehensive Guide to Composing Music Using Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)

by | Nov 9, 2024 | DAW, Music composition

Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) have democratized music production, making it accessible to musicians of all levels. Whether you’re starting fresh or moving from traditional instruments to digital production, a DAW offers an expansive toolkit for composing, arranging, and refining your music. Here’s a detailed guide to help you master composing music with a DAW, from the fundamentals to advanced tips.

1. What is a DAW? Understanding the Core of Digital Composition

A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is software used to create, edit, and produce music on a computer. Some of the most popular DAWs are:

  • Ableton Live: Known for its intuitive workflow, great for electronic music and live performance.
  • Logic Pro X: Comprehensive for recording and arranging, especially popular among singer-songwriters and Mac users.
  • FL Studio: Popular with beginners and EDM producers for its user-friendly interface.
  • Pro Tools: Industry standard, especially for audio recording and post-production.

Each DAW has unique features, but they all serve as a central hub for all music production tasks. Many DAWs offer a free trial, so try a few to see which one aligns with your goals and feels intuitive.

2. Choosing the Right DAW for Your Needs

Consider the following factors:

  • Genre Focus: Ableton Live, for example, is well-suited for electronic music with its fast sequencing tools and sample manipulation, while Logic Pro is popular for recording live instruments.
  • Budget: Some DAWs, like Reaper and Cakewalk by BandLab, are free or offer affordable options, ideal if you’re starting out.
  • Operating System: Not all DAWs are cross-platform; Logic Pro, for instance, is only available on Mac.
  • Learning Curve: FL Studio and GarageBand are beginner-friendly, while Pro Tools might have a steeper learning curve but offers unmatched audio quality and editing tools.

Choosing a DAW that fits your genre, budget, and skill level will help set you up for success.

3. Setting Up Your First Project: Essential Preparations

After selecting a DAW, it’s time to start a new project. Here’s a guide to setting it up:

  • Setting the Tempo: Choose a tempo (speed) for your track. Genres often have typical tempos: 120 BPM (beats per minute) for pop, 70-100 BPM for hip-hop, 128 BPM for house.
  • Selecting a Key Signature: Decide on a key, like C Major for a bright sound or A Minor for something moodier. Most DAWs allow you to set the key of your project to help structure your composition.
  • Organizing Tracks: Create separate tracks for each instrument, for example: Track 1 for drums, Track 2 for bass, Track 3 for lead melody, and so on. Naming these tracks makes organization easier.
  • Using a Metronome: Enable the metronome to maintain timing accuracy while recording. A consistent rhythm is essential, especially when layering multiple elements.

4. Composing a Melody and Building Chords

Melody and harmony form the heart of any composition. Here’s how to get started:

  • Simple Chord Progressions: Start with common progressions like C-G-Am-F or D-G-Bm-A, which provide a familiar foundation for your track.
  • DAW Virtual Instruments: Most DAWs come with built-in instruments like pianos, guitars, and synthesizers. Use these to try out chords and melodies.
  • MIDI Input and Controllers: If you have a MIDI keyboard, you can play and record melodies and chords directly. DAWs translate MIDI input into sound, allowing you to experiment freely.

Consider trying arpeggios (notes of a chord played in sequence) or broken chords to add variation. Working with MIDI notes gives you flexibility—you can easily adjust timing, velocity, and pitch even after recording.

5. Building the Rhythm Section

Rhythm is the backbone of many compositions. Here’s how to craft a rhythm track:

  • Using Drum Machines: Most DAWs include drum machines with customizable sounds. These are ideal for creating electronic beats or layering with live instruments.
  • Working with Samples: DAWs support drag-and-drop sample features, allowing you to use pre-recorded drum patterns or sound effects.
  • Sequencing Your Beats: Many DAWs have a step sequencer, where you can place kick, snare, and hi-hat hits across a grid to create custom beats. Experiment with patterns to find one that complements your melody.

Layering samples and loops in creative ways can yield unique rhythms. Also, consider using different patterns for verses, choruses, and breakdowns to give the rhythm section dynamic shifts.

6. Adding Basslines, Pads, and Effects to Enhance Depth

With the melody and rhythm set, it’s time to fill in the composition:

  • Crafting a Bassline: A bassline reinforces the harmony and grounds the rhythm. Use a synth bass or a sample, and match it to the root notes of your chords for a cohesive sound.
  • Pads and Ambient Sounds: Pads (sustained chords or notes) add depth and texture. A subtle pad track can make your composition feel fuller and create a foundation under the melody.
  • Sound Effects and Samples: Adding effects like reverb, delay, or even nature sounds can create a unique ambiance. For instance, delay on a snare hit can add a dub-like quality, while reverb on a piano gives it an ethereal feel.

These layers create a sense of space and mood. Experiment with subtle adjustments to find a sound that adds the right amount of depth without overwhelming the composition.

7. Mixing: Balancing the Composition

Mixing is crucial for polishing your track and ensuring each element is balanced. Follow these steps:

  • Volume Balancing: Start by adjusting the volume of each track so that no single instrument overpowers the others. Your main melody should stand out, with rhythm and harmony balanced beneath it.
  • Equalization (EQ): EQ helps remove clashing frequencies. For example, cut low frequencies on instruments like pads or guitars to make space for the bass.
  • Compression: Use compression to control dynamics, keeping the volume levels steady and preventing sudden spikes.
  • Panning: Pan sounds left or right to create spatial balance. This technique can add clarity by separating instruments in the stereo field.

Experimenting with these tools allows you to shape the overall sound and ensure that each part of the composition has its place.

8. Mastering and Exporting Your Track

Once mixed, mastering is the final polish before exporting:

  • Loudness and Clarity: Mastering increases the overall loudness and ensures consistency. Many DAWs offer stock mastering plugins, which can boost levels and balance the frequency spectrum.
  • File Export: Choose the right format—WAV for high-quality, uncompressed audio or MP3 for sharing online. Export at 44.1 kHz or higher for professional audio quality.

Proper mastering ensures your track sounds great on various devices and platforms.

9. Tips for Effective Music Composition in DAWs

  • Use Reference Tracks: Listen to professionally mixed songs to guide your EQ, panning, and reverb levels.
  • Leverage DAW Plugins: Explore built-in plugins for instruments and effects before investing in third-party plugins.
  • Iterate and Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new sounds and structures. Use automation for creative control over volume, panning, and effects.

Composing music with a DAW is a journey that improves with practice. Each composition will teach you something new about sound, structure, and creativity, allowing you to develop a unique musical style. Enjoy exploring, experimenting, and creating music with these versatile tools.