The experience from the start to the finish was out of the world. That is how audience described the concert “Music in the Dark” featuring Swiss musicians Sandro Schneebeli and Max Pizio. Guided by visually challenged volunteers to their seats in a completely dark venue they were treated to an hour of non-stop instrumental pieces and an experience was like never before.
Having done 180 shows worldwide, Sandro says, “Everywhere the audience commentthat the concert was therapeutic, soothing and meditative, relaxing and relieving from stress. This is because there are no distractions like lighting, stage, musicians, instruments and audience to wean away one’s attention. The focus is on music and nothing else. Most return either alone or with their family and friends.”
Many do feel a bit jittery in the beginning when ushered into the dark space. “In a role reversal instead of helping the blind, we become dependent on them as they are adept to move around in the dark. Once seated, the person has no clue about the stage or musicians or instruments or others around. From a usual passive audience, they become active, making them alert and allowing full concentration on music.”
It is only during the last 10 minutes a candle is lit to orient people to light while revealing that they are sitting in a circle with performers in the middle. “They are surprised to see just two of us as they look at the array of instruments figuring out which was played when,” jests Sandro. Max plays 10 instruments including China and Irish flute, clarinet, drums and piano while Sandro is at home with guitar, kalimba, scaccia pensieri and small flutes.
Sandro feels the show makes people understand the value of sight. “It is a faculty we take for granted. Sitting in dark makes us sensitive to what the blind go through their entire life. It is a very humbling.” There have been instances where some people left the hall as they were unable to cope with the dark. “Audience are cautioned before and told to call out for the guide in case of any discomfort. Under no circumstances are lights switched on.”
The concert reflects universality of music as Sandro and Max play compositions influenced by varied styles and genres across the world. “For this tour in New Delhi, Jaipur, Banguluru and Mumbai, our performance will include ‘Damse’ which has musical elements of Tuareg people, ‘Sicilia’ with effect of South Italy music and ‘Vento Di Spagna’ meaning wind of Spain, among others.” Elements of Flamenco, Samba and Celtic music too can be deciphered.
The duo practice with their eyes closed in order to get accustomed to play by sheer feel. “Interestingly, even for our usual concerts now we close our eyes. It lends an entirely different dimension to playing as you are simply submerged in music without any diversion.” For cues to each other, they count or sigh in a particular manner or play a certain note.
As to how Sandro hit upon this novel idea, he reveals that it came from certain restaurants which serve food in dark. “They are all over the Europe. The visually challenged serve the food and drinks. For me it was an intense experience as I felt unprecedented flavour and taste. Of course, I had to eat with my hand. So I decided to transplant the idea to music.”
The concert was presented at Bikaner House by the Embassy of Switzerland and the Blind Relief Association to celebrate the Italian Language Week.