Interviews
BeyondBooks: ‘Jamming with seniors shaped the music I am’
Apeejay School, Saket’s student shares that music has taught him discipline, teamwork and the power of listening
Being part of an orchestra helps students develop teamwork, discipline, and active listening skills. It fosters a sense of responsibility, enhances communication, and encourages collaboration — valuable traits that support personal growth and success in both academic and real-world settings. Meet Adam Bashneen of Class XI-B at Apeejay School, Saket.
In a candid interview, the recipient of the prestigious Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values and a plethora of awards under his belt, talks about his musical endeavours.
What inspired you to join the school orchestra as a pianist, and how has that shaped your growth as a musician?
I have always been into playing the piano since Class I, as I was pursuing a diploma course from Trinity for the same. I found the orchestra as a way for me to improve my skills by learning from my seniors. I also enjoyed jamming with the others on different songs. It helped me grow as a player because I learnt different skills from different people while being a part of it.
A specific rehearsal or performance that had an emotional or transformative impact.
I believe that when we were rehearsing for the state-level competitions, during every rehearsal, the players put their heart and soul into the rendition
How does orchestra performance differ from solo poetry or STEM?
There isn’t any such major correlation between STEM and poetry, but then again, music has always helped me in both. Music is what inspires many poems that I write. It creates a scene in my mind, and I just put it out on paper as poetry
Any specific composers or pieces that deeply resonate with you?
The orchestra always creates its renditions. I enjoy listening to and playing Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Frédéric Chopin, and Sergei Rachmaninoff.
How has your understanding of piano evolved through your time with the orchestra?
My technique wasn’t very well developed when I joined the orchestra in Class V, but since then, it has evolved significantly to a point where I can even play by ear.
Do orchestral rhythm and coordination resemble your scientific or engineering approach to problem-solving?
I believe music is all about patterns. When I listen to it or play it, I see different patterns and strokes made. I believe that way is similar to engineering, where the same is required.
How is the school supporting you?
The school has always supported me throughout my journey in music. Principal sir, and the teachers here have always brought in new opportunities for the team where we could showcase our talents.
