A.R. Rahman's music conservatory at Chennai by JuneJaipur (PTI): Composer A R Rahman is planning to start his music conservatory in Chennai by June that will also work as an academy. Rahman, who will perform on Friday at the Rajasthan Festival here, along with drummer Sivamani and singer Sadhana Sargam among others, said he feels good when people say they begin their day by playing "Aazeem oh shaan shanshah" and end their day with "Khawaja mere khawaja", songs from "Jodhaa Akbar" which have become quite popular. Incidentally, the film was not allowed to be screened in Rajasthan by Rajputs who alleged it had distorted history. Talking to reporters here, Rahman said two things are behind his not doing too much of stage shows. "First of all, there should be balance and then I too have a fear of performing on stage," he said, adding "but the moment the audience begin to respond, everything gets settled." On reality shows, he said through these programmes television viewers are "at least getting to see some kind of music instead of the regular dose of violence. "They (the contestants) should utilise the chances given to them. But they do not, it's their problem." On the overall standard of music in Bollywood, Rahman said "people are doing some great work but some people don't have self pride. "I mean when I am working, I or the producer never compromise on quality."
He said his proposed album with Michael Jackson has hit some roadblock "but these will be sorted". Appreciating the Jaipur gharana ofmusic and the state for producing some great musicians, Rahman said:"Even a nine- year-old kid sings well in Rajasthan and this is what Ilike about this state." http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/009200803280323.htm
