‘Live music is mesmerising for there is life in it, there is a different charm in it that no electronic or recorded music can provide!’ Truly Ian and Debbie Concessio, residents of St. Peters Colony, Bandra, bring to ‘life’ any occasion, with their own band of live music.
Be it weddings, events, celebrations, parties, house functions, corporate events, mall events or performances at hotels and lavish arenas, Ian and Debbie are all set to rock the stage with light jazz, retro, Konkani, Goan medley, English numbers and even Spanish hits. During the month of Christmas and New Year, this duo is booked to capacity, as everyone wants to experience the flavour of live music – the hallmark of the Ian-Debbie duo. “Getting people on the floor is a fine art and our music is so captivating, that you begin to tap your feet no matter how old you are,” says Ian.
Ian, a Bandra boy, was schooled in music at the early age of 7. He went on to play in his dad, Maurice Concessio’s famous dance band – a hot favourite in Bandra, decades ago. “I started singing when I was 5 years old, then I learnt the violin, guitar and trombone, still a unique instrument known to just a few,” reminisces Ian.
Debbie too has her feet grounded in music as she began performing live at various hotels and functions during her early teenage years. “I have been singing all my life, and I just love to make people happy with my music,” explains Debbie.
‘Live music will automatically make you groove’ And this holds true for whatever kind of modern music we may listen to nowadays, we all love to twist and turn on a Goan Masala or Classic English numbers. “The lyrics of traditional numbers contain a depth of meaning and emotion,” says Debbie. “A couple dancing is always fun and live music brings to life, the love between a couple with soulful music and meaningful vocals. It is a unique experience altogether which is special for the couple,” adds Ian.
The culture of live music is dying nowadays as both the young and old have moved to electronic music and DJs. But gold will always remain gold and live music will never lose its sparkle and classic value. “When we perform now, people call for their favourite numbers. Even youngsters love our music because it is very different and yet has the power of a rock band,” explains Ian. Most of us do not know what live music is all about; therefore we don’t recognise and respect its essence. It can add life to an event and set the mood for a perfect celebration.
Unfortunately, there is a license issue now that restricts live music performance at various renowned hotels and venues. Since this license fee is a heavy amount, clients prefer DJs and recorded music as it works out cheaper. Ian says, “A lot of renowned 5-star hotels today pay a huge license fee just for one live performance. This amount is a burden on the client and thus directly affects our business as live performers.” Considering the whole event scenario, Debbie says, “Today you get everything in a combo pack, right from catering, venue, décor to DJ. So people don’t opt for something different like live music. Many don’t even know it’s an option.”
‘Music is not about loud noise, it should be soothing, meaningful and above all entertaining…’ Live music courtesy Ian and Debbie are so full of these three elements. This duo has already imprinted their charm in Bandra and other places as they have performed at renowned hotels and clubs all over Mumbai. They are also popular with various Bollywood celebrities and have entertained huge crowds with their crisp mix of classic numbers and dance music.
Ian and Debbie have kept the culture and love for Live performances alive by their sheer talent and passion for music. Their claim, ‘Love the music and you will enjoy it. Experience it once and you will fall for it!’
For more details, you can visit www.ianconcessio.com
