The Sound of Now

BY GRACE CLARKE

Passing moments, celebrations, gatherings, and even intimate moments by yourself, all share one subtle thread: they are woven together by a bed of sound. Whether it’s the soft hum of a quiet room, the crescendo of laughter in a crowd, or a song that lingers long after the credits roll, music grounds each experience, deepening our connection to the present. It colours the air around us, giving texture and emotion to the simplest or grandest of moments. Because music is so intimately intertwined with our experiences, it fosters a profound, artful relationship between people and the craft of those who create it. This symbiosis allows musicians to channel the collective pulse of our shared moments into art, making music a powerful vehicle for emotion and storytelling.

To gain a deeper appreciation of this nuanced relationship and its complexities, Masala spoke to 16-year-old Aryan Singh Thakral, a budding musician from the Thai-Indian community. Having started playing the guitar nine years ago, then the piano and saxophone soon after, Aryan meticulously crafts memorable moments through his art, note by note. Through our conversation, we explore Aryan’s personal journey with his craft and examine how the sonic landscape has influenced his development and artistic expression.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I was born and raised in the vibrant city of Bangkok, and I’m currently in my junior year of high school. Throughout my life, I’ve been surrounded by a loving and supportive family, and travelling has played a big role in shaping who I am. Thanks to my family, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the world, bringing my instrument everywhere and creating epic music videos. My education began at Australian International School of Bangkok (AISB), where I studied until third grade, before moving to International School Bangkok (ISB), where I discovered my passion for sports and music. I have become actively involved in both, and now I proudly run for the ISB Cross Country Team.

How did you first get involved with music, and how long have you been practising?

I first got involved with music when I was seven years old. I vividly remember seeing my dad strumming his acoustic guitar, and something about that moment sparked something inside of me. That was when my music journey truly began. Soon after, I decided to pick up other instruments along the way. I have now been playing music for nearly a decade and enjoy every second of it!

How would you describe your connection to music?

For me, music is more than just a collection of sounds, it is an inseparable part of life. The rhythm of songs connects directly to your heartbeat, creating a powerful link between music and emotion. It feels as though each beat mirrors the pulse of life, resonating within me and guiding my emotions. Music isn’t just an art form; it’s a way of being, capable of influencing emotions, inspiring action, and bringing people together.

You play the guitar, piano, and saxophone – what has your experience been like with each instrument?

Each instrument brings a unique experience. The guitar has been my outlet for creative exploration, evolving through various genres like classical, rock, and pop. The piano instilled in me a sense of discipline and persistence, which has been incredibly fulfilling. Playing the saxophone introduced me to structure and teamwork, allowing me to grow as part of an ensemble and improve my skills year after year. My passion for these instruments shifts frequently, depending on what resonates with me at the moment.

You’ve also performed professionally, including at the Masala Wedding Fair, which we all enjoyed. How has your professional journey been so far?

While I don’t consider myself a professional musician just yet, I’ve been fortunate to perform at several esteemed events. For example, I had the honour of being invited by H.E. Suchitra Durai, the former Indian Ambassador to Thailand, to play the saxophone for the 75th anniversary celebration of India’s Independence at the Embassy of India in Bangkok. Additionally, I was invited by the president of the India-Thai Chamber of Commerce (ITCC) to open a Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand (JFCCT) event with a saxophone performance. I am deeply grateful for these opportunities and will always cherish them as I continue on my musical journey.

What does your preparation for a performance entail?

Once my performance is scheduled, I practise relentlessly at every opportunity to make sure each detail is flawless. I usually record myself, play for my family members, and focus on improving each time. I’ll admit, right before a big performance, I usually get butterflies! But once it begins, those nerves fade away, especially with the audience’s great support.

On average, how many hours a week do you dedicate to practice?

It fluctuates from week to week. I generally play the saxophone for around 6-8 hours a week, but this can vary. As for the piano, it’s like meditation to me. It’s my own personal form of relaxation, and ever since I learned how to pick up songs by ear, I grew an even deeper appreciation for it.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

One of my biggest musical influences would be Ed Sheeran as I love how he performs like a one-man-band. One day, I hope to make music videos where I play all three of my instruments in a song. Another key music influence of mine is Kenny G. I love his music videos and the way he plays the saxophone. I’ve covered many of his songs, and my first music video was actually a cover of his hit, “The Moment.”

Where do you see your career heading in five years?

In the next five years, I aspire to keep playing all my instruments and creating music videos around the world. I want to continue performing and sharing my music with more people. I’m also interested in composing my own songs and possibly getting into songwriting. Exploring that side of music will allow me to express my creativity in new ways and connect more deeply with audiences.

What advice would you give to youngsters in the community who are interested in following their own creative passions?

I would give them the same advice my parents always gave me: “do what you love,” and, “be happy.” It’s something I’ve lived by, and it’s helped me stay focused on what truly matters. I also believe in “kal ho naa ho,” which means, “tomorrow may never come.” This reminds me that life is short, so you should always follow your passions. There’s no better time than the present, because doing what you love is what makes life most fulfilling