Call of the Maestro
Call of the Maestro’ is a journey undertaken to uncover how a 3000 year old tradition of Indian classical Music is surviving a modern world. Passed down from generation to generation there is a threat now that young people are less interested in dedicating their lives to learning the skills of an art form that is a highly complex mix of structure, improvisation and spiritual faith. The current great Maestros of India are now in their 80?s and 90s and unless they can inspire the next generation their music is at risk of dying with them. The film follows a student of music and a promoter of Indian Classical music as they travel around India finding the Maestros who have dedicated their careers to keeping the music alive.
There are music schools set up for orphans and blind children, women are taking opportunities to perform in a way that was unheard of historically, technology is being used to help save time so that young people can balance jobs and their musical education , musicians are brought into schools and colleges and Maestros perform in both urban and rural places where the whole community is welcomed. The filmmakers were privileged to enter the homes of the last of the great Maestros to hear them perform in intimate surroundings and be witness to them passing on their knowledge, talent and experience to their disciples in rarely seen scenes that echo back through ancient times. It is on the shoulders of the young that its future lies.. His poetry spoke to Muslims and Hindus alike.
Trailer:
Lou Hamilton
Lou Hamilton is an award-winning Film Director and Photographer. She founded the production company Create Lab intended to create films that are inspired by people who rise above the challenges they face.
Lou studied photography and multi media at Byam Shaw School of Art, and film and photography for her MA at Chelsea College of art. She was awarded a Director’s mentoring scheme under award-winning Director David Yates, then went on to make short artist films for public spaces, art galleries and cinema, funded by the Arts Council. Two of these were nominated for the David Altshul Award for creative excellence in filmmaking. Lou was asked to direct two films of a BAFTA-winning documentary series for channel 4, which was nominated for the Royal Television Society Awards and the Broadcast Awards. She continues to direct films for television, cinema and public spaces. Her recent films have also received Awards at Festivals around the world.
