Malikaprasad@icloud.com
Contact
+1 217 691 9297
Veteranenstrasse 21, 10119 Berlin, Germany
The Foundation
Classical Violin and Maternal Inspiration
My entrance into classical music was guided by my mother, Kamila Prasad, an accomplished early music bassoonist. Watching her dedication to historical performance and artistic integrity left a profound mark on me. Following her lead into the classical realm, I chose the violin as my primary instrument for classical expression.
My technical and musical development on the violin has been nurtured by extraordinary mentors and teachers, including
Daga Suchoń:An accomplished violinist based in Phoenix, Arizona, who provided crucial preparation for the demanding repertoire of the Imagine US tour.
Konrad Dragan
My first violin teacher in Legnica, Poland, who built my musical foundation with a strong focus on tone production, precision, and fundamental technique.
Ara Sarkissian
My instructor at the Interlochen Center for the Arts, who generously supported my dual passion for drums while guiding me through complex orchestral repertoire for the Imagine US tour.
Ludmiła Sołowiewicz
A wonderful teacher in Jelenia Góra, Poland, who introduced me to the rich traditions and discipline of the Russian violin school.. Through their instruction, rigorous masterclasses, and countless hours of practice, I cultivated the precision, tone, and emotional depth required to perform at the highest orchestral levels.
Discovering Drums
Jazz Drums and Paternal Influence
While classical music provided my structural foundation, jazz introduced me to rhythmic freedom and spontaneous dialogue. My transition into playing the drums was heavily influenced by my father, Ranjit Prasad. Beyond helping me select the right mentors to guide my percussion training, he opened the door to real-time improvisation. Playing jazz alongside my father became a crucial space where I learned to listen actively, react instinctively, and embrace the spirit of ensemble playing. My growth as a drummer and multi-genre musician has been shaped by studying under exceptional educators and performers, including:
Bryn Roberts
My jazz theory and composition instructor for two years at the Interlochen Center for the Arts, who expanded my theoretical knowledge and introduced me to a whole new world of music and creative possibilities.
Chris Glassman
My mentor and band leader for three years at Interlochen, who played a central role in my artistic development and constantly believed in my potential through every step of my musical journey.
Greg Fundis
My very first drum teacher, who ignited my love for the instrument and built my core musical foundation with infectious energy, technical discipline, and groove-focused instruction.
Joe Smith
My instructor in Berlin who officially introduced me to jazz drumming; as an Interlochen alumnus himself, his mentorship inspired my decision to attend Interlochen.
Brad Novak
My drum instructor at Interlochen, who developed my jazz drumming while encouraging me to explore diverse genres, sharing a deep passion for music that inspired me in every lesson. Through their guidance, mentorship, and belief in my artistic voice, I built the foundation, versatility, and passion needed to navigate any musical environment.
The Intersection
Interlochen and the Imagine US Tour
These two musical paths converged during my time as a violinist with the Interlochen Arts Academy Orchestra. A defining milestone of my artistic career was participating in the historic Imagine US tour, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Performing on stage alongside world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma, legendary jazz trumpeter and composer Wynton Marsalis, and distinguished conductor Cristian Măcelaru was a transformative experience. The program challenged us to bring incredible depth and versatility to the stage, featuring:
- Reena Esmail’s evocative work RE|member
- A reimagined performance of Charles Ives’ Symphony No. 4
- The premiere performance of Wynton Marsalis’ new cello concerto
Collaborating with talented student artists across all seven of the Academy’s artistic disciplines allowed us to showcase the true power, passion, and vision of the youth creative voice.
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