In Conversation with…
Shail Suman Singh
Singer, Lyricist, Composer, Author, UK
ShailSumanMusic
ShailSumanMusic
shailsumanmusic
Aduetcollectionofpoems
ShailSumanMusic
shailsumanmusic
Aduetcollectionofpoems
COURAGE, DETERMINATION AND PASSION; MY WAY OF LIFE
Education act as a catalyst in developing a “growth mindset” that helps one to realize one’s own potential and strengths
You are highly educated and having a number of educational degrees, our readers would like to know how your educational achievements enriched you?
I think that education act as a catalyst in developing a “growth mindset” that helps one to realize one’s own potential and strengths. Being a software engineer and acquiring a technical approach helped me in my growth as an artist. I could record ,edit and mix my vocals at my home based studio. Later I edited my music video too. In the same manner, while working as an ICT teacher in the biggest Indian school of the country Oman , I wanted to help students and parents more, so I pursued my diploma in “counseling for children and adolescents” from England and that helped me later in my volunteer work in kid’s cancer unit as a play therapist in Royal Hospital in Muscat, Oman. This high level mindset also helped me in discovering my own authentic self when I started to express myself by writing articles in local magazines and later published my book. I continued to get more clarity about my creative ability while performing as an actor in British Theatre and short films.My creative impulses got more directional as I started my talk show “Rendezvous with Shail” on internet and explored my abilities as a host, producer and editor of the show. My next intention that turned into reality in this inspired state of mind was, composing music and writing the lyrics. I released two of my singles as an indie ( independent) artist. So I can say that my educational abilities and mindset delightfully helped me to turn my creative desires into reality.
I think that education act as a catalyst in developing a “growth mindset” that helps one to realize one’s own potential and strengths. Being a software engineer and acquiring a technical approach helped me in my growth as an artist. I could record ,edit and mix my vocals at my home based studio. Later I edited my music video too. In the same manner, while working as an ICT teacher in the biggest Indian school of the country Oman , I wanted to help students and parents more, so I pursued my diploma in “counseling for children and adolescents” from England and that helped me later in my volunteer work in kid’s cancer unit as a play therapist in Royal Hospital in Muscat, Oman. This high level mindset also helped me in discovering my own authentic self when I started to express myself by writing articles in local magazines and later published my book. I continued to get more clarity about my creative ability while performing as an actor in British Theatre and short films.My creative impulses got more directional as I started my talk show “Rendezvous with Shail” on internet and explored my abilities as a host, producer and editor of the show. My next intention that turned into reality in this inspired state of mind was, composing music and writing the lyrics. I released two of my singles as an indie ( independent) artist. So I can say that my educational abilities and mindset delightfully helped me to turn my creative desires into reality.
Why Shail Suman wanted to be an author?
Reading books has been my lifelong fascination and writing was an obvious choice for me. The seeds for writing were planted well in my childhood. My parents were book lovers, and I was given exposure to international writes like Maxim Gorky, Shakespeare, John Keats, Leo Tolstoy, Shelley along with the prominent Indian writers like Rabindranath Tagore, Premchand, Sharat Chandra, Kabir, Sarojini Naidu, Arundhati Roy and many more. In Muscat, when I joined an international poetry club and started to read my poems, then it occurred to me to convert my creative expressions into something delicious. That’s how I decided to publish my book and thus became an author.
Reading books has been my lifelong fascination and writing was an obvious choice for me. The seeds for writing were planted well in my childhood. My parents were book lovers, and I was given exposure to international writes like Maxim Gorky, Shakespeare, John Keats, Leo Tolstoy, Shelley along with the prominent Indian writers like Rabindranath Tagore, Premchand, Sharat Chandra, Kabir, Sarojini Naidu, Arundhati Roy and many more. In Muscat, when I joined an international poetry club and started to read my poems, then it occurred to me to convert my creative expressions into something delicious. That’s how I decided to publish my book and thus became an author.
Please tell us about the central idea of your book “A Duet”.
My book “A Duet” is a collection of poems that ponders several themes of life, such as music, dreams, relationships, and many more. The book is a collaboration of poems between a Mother (Shail) and my daughter (Rishika). Both contribute one poem to each theme, and despite having such intensely different outlooks, both seem to share a dynamic bond. Their divergent takes on the same topics are quite fascinating. These themes hope to provoke thought and reflect the diversity of perspective within our society today. Every theme illustrated by Alex Gili further helps enhance the moods and hues associated with each topic. Every set of two poems is supported by a short introduction that gives insight into how each poem came to be; these are written alternatively: one by Shail and another by Rishika, marked by an initial S or R.
My book “A Duet” is a collection of poems that ponders several themes of life, such as music, dreams, relationships, and many more. The book is a collaboration of poems between a Mother (Shail) and my daughter (Rishika). Both contribute one poem to each theme, and despite having such intensely different outlooks, both seem to share a dynamic bond. Their divergent takes on the same topics are quite fascinating. These themes hope to provoke thought and reflect the diversity of perspective within our society today. Every theme illustrated by Alex Gili further helps enhance the moods and hues associated with each topic. Every set of two poems is supported by a short introduction that gives insight into how each poem came to be; these are written alternatively: one by Shail and another by Rishika, marked by an initial S or R.
What is the importance of struggle period in your professional life from education to successful creative personality?
I think that struggle is a bridge between the place you are in the present moment and place you were meant to be. The biggest struggle was inside me, whether or not give myself permission to be creative. I also believe that worse moments in our lives makes us who we truly are. While publishing my book, there was a time when I faced writer’s block. On the other end my publisher wanted to hurry up and submit the manuscript as soon as possible. I felt pressure and anxiety with nil creative impulse. This struggle really helped me to look inside of myself and understand the conflict and uneasiness. Eventually, after giving a gap of nine months, I started to write again. When I look back again, I totally understand this conflict between writing for “completing the book” or write when a “poem actually starts to flow from my inner creative space”. I chose to be authentic and true to myself. So, I can definitely say that struggle is something you draw strength from and find meaning in your creative landscape.
I think that struggle is a bridge between the place you are in the present moment and place you were meant to be. The biggest struggle was inside me, whether or not give myself permission to be creative. I also believe that worse moments in our lives makes us who we truly are. While publishing my book, there was a time when I faced writer’s block. On the other end my publisher wanted to hurry up and submit the manuscript as soon as possible. I felt pressure and anxiety with nil creative impulse. This struggle really helped me to look inside of myself and understand the conflict and uneasiness. Eventually, after giving a gap of nine months, I started to write again. When I look back again, I totally understand this conflict between writing for “completing the book” or write when a “poem actually starts to flow from my inner creative space”. I chose to be authentic and true to myself. So, I can definitely say that struggle is something you draw strength from and find meaning in your creative landscape.
You are an author, lyricist, composer, theatre artist, behaviour coach for children, radio artist.How do you mangane all these creativity with perfection and time management?
Shail: I don’t recall any time when I meticulously plan anything or made any conscious effort to manage time. I just follow my heart, support my creative voice with authenticity.
Shail: I don’t recall any time when I meticulously plan anything or made any conscious effort to manage time. I just follow my heart, support my creative voice with authenticity.
What were the challenges and experience to produce your first music video ” Baatein?”
My biggest challenge was that I was in a middle eastern country Oman where music industry does not exist as it is an Arabic speaking world. There were hardly any music production company or professional recording studio, that I could reach to, for my Indian music composition. So, I decided to produce it myself. I wrote the lyrics and composed music and then recorded at my home studio with vocal booth made out of card boxes with layers of blanket to make it soundproof. Then I hired a mixing engineer online to mix and master my track. Once the track was ready, we did location hunting and shot the video at some exotic locations in Muscat. Because of amazing landscape and pristine beaches of Muscat, the video shoot became an unforgettable experience. Next big challenge was video editing. So, I learned Premier pro software for the video editing, which is the industry standard. Overall, it was an incredible experience to produce and release a music video thus turning my dream into reality.
My biggest challenge was that I was in a middle eastern country Oman where music industry does not exist as it is an Arabic speaking world. There were hardly any music production company or professional recording studio, that I could reach to, for my Indian music composition. So, I decided to produce it myself. I wrote the lyrics and composed music and then recorded at my home studio with vocal booth made out of card boxes with layers of blanket to make it soundproof. Then I hired a mixing engineer online to mix and master my track. Once the track was ready, we did location hunting and shot the video at some exotic locations in Muscat. Because of amazing landscape and pristine beaches of Muscat, the video shoot became an unforgettable experience. Next big challenge was video editing. So, I learned Premier pro software for the video editing, which is the industry standard. Overall, it was an incredible experience to produce and release a music video thus turning my dream into reality.
“Raahen Anjani” was your first single debut as a lyricist and singer.What was the response of listeners for this debut and how much you are satisfied with this creation?
“Rahein Anjani” was my first solo music composition and I released it when Pandemic was still going on in April 2021.I received very encouraging response from my listeners and still it is streaming on all major OTT music Platforms. I am very happy with my progress and looking forward to releasing its music video too that could not be completed because of lockdown. I am sure my listeners will like that too.
“Rahein Anjani” was my first solo music composition and I released it when Pandemic was still going on in April 2021.I received very encouraging response from my listeners and still it is streaming on all major OTT music Platforms. I am very happy with my progress and looking forward to releasing its music video too that could not be completed because of lockdown. I am sure my listeners will like that too.
You are renowned theatre artist of UK. Please share your achievements in the field of British theatre?
I worked in British theatre and learned different types of performing art forms that I had never known or watched before. One was “Pantomime” and the other was “Murder Mystery Dinner theatre”. A pantomime (often shortened to Panto) is a musical-comedy family-orientated theatrical production traditionally performed in United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, etc. at Christmas-time. The panto often features slapstick or messy comedy routines, children dancing, recent songs, spectacular sets and colourful costumes, and is often themed around a fairy story.A murder mystery dinner is a popular type of dinner theater in which the play is a murder mystery, and the diners are invited to solve the mystery as they eat and watch the play. The most exciting and interesting aspect is that these theatres are interactive where audience also take part in the play.These were a great fun and ‘work experience’ opportunities, where I could use all my skills to act, sing and improvise. You need to have bags of personality to larger-than-life characters in these plays. Panto is a lot different to “normal” theatre because there is a lot of audience interaction, so being quick witted and having the ability to think on your feet and keep in character is desirable. Not to miss, is the essential comic timing and spontaneity that is a must. It was an enthralling experience to work with a team of seasoned as well as amateur actors and be a part of a colourful show. I also happened to be a live sound curator in “sound and light” department in a pantomime that was an amazing experience.
I worked in British theatre and learned different types of performing art forms that I had never known or watched before. One was “Pantomime” and the other was “Murder Mystery Dinner theatre”. A pantomime (often shortened to Panto) is a musical-comedy family-orientated theatrical production traditionally performed in United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, etc. at Christmas-time. The panto often features slapstick or messy comedy routines, children dancing, recent songs, spectacular sets and colourful costumes, and is often themed around a fairy story.A murder mystery dinner is a popular type of dinner theater in which the play is a murder mystery, and the diners are invited to solve the mystery as they eat and watch the play. The most exciting and interesting aspect is that these theatres are interactive where audience also take part in the play.These were a great fun and ‘work experience’ opportunities, where I could use all my skills to act, sing and improvise. You need to have bags of personality to larger-than-life characters in these plays. Panto is a lot different to “normal” theatre because there is a lot of audience interaction, so being quick witted and having the ability to think on your feet and keep in character is desirable. Not to miss, is the essential comic timing and spontaneity that is a must. It was an enthralling experience to work with a team of seasoned as well as amateur actors and be a part of a colourful show. I also happened to be a live sound curator in “sound and light” department in a pantomime that was an amazing experience.
How do you accept hard times in your life and how do you overcome tough situations in personal and professional life?
Good Question! I think differently while interpreting hard times. I can say with my experience that there are no hard times but hard decisions and thereafter situation created because of those decisions. With this understanding I deal with the situation with courage, determination and passion. I don’t give up easily till I reach where it meant to be.
Good Question! I think differently while interpreting hard times. I can say with my experience that there are no hard times but hard decisions and thereafter situation created because of those decisions. With this understanding I deal with the situation with courage, determination and passion. I don’t give up easily till I reach where it meant to be.
In the field of creativity there is very much criticism also, what is your experience. How do you accept this?
I think critical thinking is a part and parcel of human experience. If criticism is accompanied with good suggestions, chances are that I will embrace it with grace. But if criticism feels like irrelevant reaction without any creative research/background, then I will surely ignore it completely and continue with my creative work. I like to add here, that self-preservation is important in creative field. Your creations are like your “thought babies”, where you are responsible for their security, survival and growth. At the same time, you need to give them wings to fly out there in the world and nurture them to fulfil their destiny.
I think critical thinking is a part and parcel of human experience. If criticism is accompanied with good suggestions, chances are that I will embrace it with grace. But if criticism feels like irrelevant reaction without any creative research/background, then I will surely ignore it completely and continue with my creative work. I like to add here, that self-preservation is important in creative field. Your creations are like your “thought babies”, where you are responsible for their security, survival and growth. At the same time, you need to give them wings to fly out there in the world and nurture them to fulfil their destiny.
In your professional and personal career, who supported you the most men or women?
Both, I say. I received good support and encouragement from men and women both but women in my life went a step ahead in emotional anchoring and understanding. Men have been very cooperative, respectful and resourceful in my pursuit of good work.
Shail Suman is an introvert or extrovert by nature?
I can call myself an ambivert, who is an extrovert and expressive for creative work but introvert in struggles and challenges.
Both, I say. I received good support and encouragement from men and women both but women in my life went a step ahead in emotional anchoring and understanding. Men have been very cooperative, respectful and resourceful in my pursuit of good work.
Shail Suman is an introvert or extrovert by nature?
I can call myself an ambivert, who is an extrovert and expressive for creative work but introvert in struggles and challenges.
You are always fit and energetic, What is the reason behind this?
I am a vegan by choice. I think that a plant based whole food lifestyle is the reason for my energy and joy.
I am a vegan by choice. I think that a plant based whole food lifestyle is the reason for my energy and joy.
What are your compliments for your husband and daughter?
I will compliment my husband as a professional, intelligent, and appreciative person. My daughter is my sunshine who is hard working, authentic, courteous, courageous, creative and compassionate person.
I will compliment my husband as a professional, intelligent, and appreciative person. My daughter is my sunshine who is hard working, authentic, courteous, courageous, creative and compassionate person.
What are your targets in future as a multitasking creative personality?
My creative initiative that I am currently working on, is my next book. I am also looking forward to the making of music video of my solo “Rahein Anjani”. My next music composition “Dhadak” is in finishing stage, soon will be ready to be released. I have finished recording some Bollywood covers ready to be released soon. I am also working in collaboration with other artists in the United Kingdom for a new creative venture.
My creative initiative that I am currently working on, is my next book. I am also looking forward to the making of music video of my solo “Rahein Anjani”. My next music composition “Dhadak” is in finishing stage, soon will be ready to be released. I have finished recording some Bollywood covers ready to be released soon. I am also working in collaboration with other artists in the United Kingdom for a new creative venture.
