WorldSpace launches 24-hour dedicated classical music channels

Iconic personalities from the field of music such as violin virtuoso L Subramaniam, vocalist Ashwini Bhide Deshpande and S Sowmya are tuning into the latest offering from WorldSpace.

WorldSpace has launched two 24-hour channels dedicated to Indian classical music - Shruti and Gandharv. While Shruti is dedicated to Carnatic music and Gandharv is a Hindustani music channel.

The programming mix of these channels will not only have stimulating content for connoisseurs, but also include programmes that cater to beginners and lay listeners. Apart from exploring various aspects of pure music in the Carnatic and Hindustani music genres, the content will include music-based informative programs to educate and widen the listener base of Indian classical music. These programmes will comprise features, informative and educational programmes, interactive sessions, talent promotions, audience-artist interfaces and comparative studies.

Talking about the new channels, L Subramaniam says, "These channels will help promote classical music among Indian listeners, especially kids."

Ashwini Bhide Deshpande says, "We have a very rich tradition and heritage of Indian classical music, which is not very easily accessible to a lot of people. I am sure channels like Gandharv and Shruti will bring classical music as well as and artistes closer to music lovers. They will also help us artistes reach a wider audience and give classical music its due".

R Mahadevan, program director, Worldspace India Pvt Ltd, who has been keenly involved with the planning, programming and production of Shruti and Gandharv, is very enthusiastic about the launch.

He says, "We will work towards building a strong community of Indian classical music lovers through these channels by promoting continual interaction between artistes and music enthusiasts."

Shruti and Gandharv will also be involved with on-ground activities such as musical and community-based events. These events will not only complement our broadcast programmes, but also generate recall for the two channels among classical music audiences, and help position the two channels as the source for Indian classical music."

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