AR Rahman to release 16 new tracks with Dubai-based all-woman orchestra team; remembers late Chinese filmmaker He Ping

Legendary musician AR Rahman is gearing up for the release of 16 new compositions with a Dubai-based Orchestra, which is an all-woman ensemble of 55 musicians from 28 countries. In a recent interview, Rahman shared the importance of this collaboration and also reminisced about working with the late

Chinese filmmaker He Ping

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In a chat with Variety, Rahman revealed that the first track from these 16 compositions, 'Unsung,' will be a tribute to all the people who produce things and never seek recognition. He refers to them as angels, fairy godmothers, or fathers, individuals who help others to shine. "It could be your parents, a teacher, someone who gives to charity, or someone who's creating something incredible, but prefers to remain unknown. They simply want to do something for humanity. So, it's a tribute to all those unsung heroes behind something great, who choose not to be celebrated," Rahman added.
The compositions comprise several themes, including humanity, space, love, and relationships. 'Unsung' is due to be released this week, with the rest of the songs following throughout the year. The 17-minute composition "Humanitas," which incorporates Indian classical elements, is likely to be the next release. Rahman believes this track, mostly instrumental, will appeal to people, as he thinks many prefer music without words. According to him, some pieces communicate much more than just words.

Rahman mentioned that orchestral music has a global appeal and is listed on leading music streaming platforms, thus having the potential to reach a larger audience. "I'm so accustomed to watching a movie or working on musical theater where you have a subject. It's incredible to compose something solely for an orchestra. Some of the compositions are experimental, while others are melodic," Rahman stated. He considers it a treat to work with the Dubai-based Firdaus Orchestra.

Rahman concluded by expressing his desire to incorporate Eastern solos like the Erhu in future collaborations with the Dubai orchestra. While mentioning this, he recalled his collaboration with the late Chinese filmmaker He Ping in 2003 on "Warriors of Heaven and Earth." The filmmaker had planned to travel to Prague to collaborate with Rahman, but their plans were thwarted by the SARS outbreak, forcing Rahman to compose on his own there.