My goal is to connect with listeners at an emotional level.
Preeti Anand
Multi Instrumentalist
Mumbai
Congratulations on starting your professional music journey! What inspired you to leave the corporate world and pursue your passion for music?
Music has always been an integral part of my life, largely thanks to my dad, who surrounded us with an eclectic mix of genres. From Ghulam Ali’s soulful ghazals and Cliff Richard’s timeless tunes to the smooth saxophone of Kenny G, our home was filled with music. His collection of cassettes and CDs introduced me to a world of diverse musical influences. Additionally, true to South Indian tradition, my mom would start each day with the classical harmonies of M.S. Subbalakshmi, bringing a sense of calm and ritual to our mornings.
While I learnt the veena as a kid, I would spend endless hours experimenting with a tiny keyboard that my dad had gifted me. Yet, despite this deep-rooted connection to music, I chose a conventional path. I pursued an MBA and worked with a few companies. It seemed fulfilling on the surface but there was always a lingering feeling that something was missing.
After getting married, my focus entirely shifted to my family & raising my two wonderful boys, but music remained a constant draw. During quiet moments when the kids were asleep, I immersed myself in learning the flute and guitar through YouTube, dedicating countless hours to learning fingerstyle guitar. I invested deeply in understanding this genre with dedication. Then, few years later, the saxophone entered my life, and given the dearth of female saxophonists in Mumbai, opportunities gradually began to present themselves
You are a multi-instrumentalist, but the saxophone is your primary instrument. What drew you to the saxophone, and what do you love most about playing it?
I am very grateful to my friend’s father, Dr. Ajit Joshi, who, despite being a doctor by profession, was also a talented saxophonist. Recognizing my passion for music, he encouraged me to take up the saxophone, describing it as one of the most beautiful instruments in the world. His words resonated deeply, sparking a curiosity that led me to immerse myself in researching the instrument. I spent countless late nights listening to saxophonists and the more I learned, the deeper my fascination grew. Then, as if the universe was encouraging my passion, my husband brought home a saxophone from one of his trips abroad, making my dream a reality. I vividly remember dedicating 10-12 hours a day to practice in that first year, determined to develop a good tone. Since then, I haven’t looked back.
What I love most about the saxophone is how it feels like an extension of my soul. Since I am not much of a talker, the saxophone gives me a voice to express my emotions in a way that words cannot. I have a long road ahead to fully grasp its depth but playing it feels like pure love.
Your background in business and MBA experience might seem unrelated to music, but are there any skills or lessons you have applied from your corporate days to your music career?
One of the key lessons I have taken from my MBA and corporate work is the importance of staying organized. It helps me plan my setlists, keep track of performances, and create structured practice routines for all the instruments I play. Another area would probably be networking, building relationships with other musicians and potential clients or collaborators.
Your music style ranges from pop to smooth jazz to Bollywood. How do you blend these genres, and what’s your approach to creating a unique sound?
I am still working on creating my unique sound. At the core of it, my goal is to connect with listeners at an emotional level. I blend pop, smooth jazz, and Bollywood elements by focusing on what resonates most with the emotions I want to convey.
You are gaining recognition quickly, playing at corporate events and gaining a following. How does it feel to receive this kind of response so early in your career?
Well, professionally this is my first year but I have been playing regularly at open mics like Hooted1ce & posting videos online the past few years. I feel that my musical journey surpasses my own understanding and control because I have never planned any of this; I have always let myself be guided by the moment and go with the flow. Each opportunity and experience seem to align naturally, and I am deeply grateful for how everything is coming together.
This early recognition has filled me with gratitude. I feel a deep sense of responsibility now to continue evolving as a musician and to always put my heart into every performance. I am excited for what lies ahead.
How do you prepare for performances, and what’s your approach to connecting with your audience?
On the day of a performance, my preparation includes rehearsing key pieces from my setlist and practicing exercises to ensure control over my breath and tone. I also take time to mentally prepare, visualizing the performance and focusing on how I want to engage with the listeners.
When it comes to connecting with my audience, I am still a work in progress. But I feel truly fortunate to have seen my close friend & mentor Neeti Mohan, perform live on numerous occasions. Her performances are a masterclass in artistry, emotion, and command. The way she connects with her audience and seamlessly integrates technique with soul is deeply inspiring. On some level, I aspire to bring a similar level of finesse and grace to my own performances, fully aware that this level of mastery demands years of dedication and hard work.
You have mentioned being open to exploring new horizons. What are some uncharted territories or experimental projects you’d like to embark on in the future?
I have been dreaming about exploring new platforms like Candlelight Concerts and Sofar Sounds for a while. Both offer such intimate, immersive experiences. The idea of performing in those settings excites me because it’s less about big production and more about the soul of the performance, which is something I truly value.
Beyond that, Iam also eager to collaborate with different bands at Sound Rise and take part in music festivals like NH7 weekender etc.
Collaborations are an essential part of any musician’s journey. Who would you love to collaborate with, and what kind of projects excite you?
While I have mainly been performing solo, I am quite thrilled about the new collaborations I’ve started with a few bands and DJs in the city. The idea of combining my sax solos with their diverse sounds is exciting, and I am really looking forward to exploring these collaborative projects.
Balancing music, family, and personal life can be challenging. How do you manage your time and prioritize your responsibilities?
Well honestly speaking, I havent reached a phase where I cannot manage my schedules. But I get immense support from my husband. When the days are hectic, he really steps up by managing a big chunk of the responsibilities which takes a lot of the mental load off me. Having that support allows me to dedicate time to my creative process without feeling overwhelmed by everything else.
But yes, I have learnt that flexibility is key—some days I lean more into my music, and other days, my family takes priority. As long as I am present and fully engaged in whatever I am doing, it all comes together.
What message or emotion do you hope to convey through your music, and how do you want your audience to feel after experiencing your performances?
I honestly don’t have any message to convey through my music but my aim is to touch people’s hearts with my playing. I believe that when music is played with sincerity, it speaks directly to the listener’s heart.
Which is your favourite quote
“I have cherished this quote since my college days: ‘Slow down, Simplify & Be Kind’”
