Decoding Music: Arun Muraleedharan
- 27 Jun 2017
- Sunaya
- Features
This emerging symphonist has composed amazing notes for movies - Adventures of Omanakuttan and Happy Wedding
How monotonous it would be to watch a movie without music and background scores. But, we are very fortunate to have blessed with an array of wonderful composers and singers who are giving life to movies through their musical touch. I am lucky to have interviewed one such star who is winning hearts of many through his montage of tunes. In an exclusive interview with WtzupKochi, Arun Muraleedharan unfolds his musical journey.
The movie “Adventures of Omanakuttan” has been receiving great responses, could you share your experiences while working in the movie?
This is my first project in Mollywood as a music composer. Together with Dawn Vincent, six songs have been composed in the movie. Three songs were divided between me and Dawn. We both have different styles; I like ‘filmy’ kind of music and Dawn likes experimenting. So we figured that it will be interesting when two different genres are part of one movie. I am very happy that my songs are being appreciated and noticed by the people. Though the initial response was poor, now, the movie has been well received by the audience. I am very happy and grateful to be a part of this unique project.
What inspired you to become a music composer?
(Laughs) Well, I believe I was destined to be a music composer. I did not choose music… Music chose me. After graduating in Music, I started enjoying music and committed projects.
I and my friends composed songs for short films, ads and music albums. I have composed the background score for around 24 short films so far. One of them was ‘Whyga’ released in the year 2010, which dealt with child abuse. The film became an instant hit and crossed over 20 lakh views online. People started recognizing our works. Rajesh with whom I worked in a short film suggested my name for the movie “Happy Wedding,” and thus it happened.
With many music composers making it big in the Music Industry, do you think there a tight competition in the field?
Music and background scores apparently play a pivotal part in movies and so, I feel when more people join the field, more the variety of music. I get to learn from many in the Music Industry and all are my friends. We spent time with each other and also discuss ideas. Movie Industry is a great platform to learn and there are many who we can ask for suggestions. While working for a movie we do not restrict ourselves to a particular designation assigned to us. Being friends, all of us did everything together. The ultimate aim was for the movie to come out beautifully. Music or BGM in the film helps to bring out the emotions of the characters and to enhance both the lows and the highs in the story. I think today everyone believes in promoting healthy competition at work.
Tell us about your future projects?
Well, since this is my initial stage in the industry, more song compositions are coming my way. Now, I am working for a Tamil movie – Chenthamaraye. I have also signed for 2 Malayalam Projects, one is Rom-Com movie with Sunny Wayne in the lead and another is Tick Tock with Tovino Thomas in the lead. I will be working with both background score and songs. It is a different kind of project, never attempted before in Mollywood. The theme is time travel.
What’s your advice to young and emerging composers?
Do not hesitate; there is a lot of opportunity in this booming Industry. Keep experimenting and never give up on your dream. We are the ones who can take our audience on an emotional roller coaster ride through our musical renditions.
Words: Shalet James Images from: Arun Muraleedharan
