A group of young music enthusiasts launched the first ever music academy in Sheeri area in north Kashmir's Baramulla district to train students and budding artists besides wean away youth from the substance abuse.

The music academy ‘Kohinoor Musical Academy’ has been set up by Owais Nabi Ganaie- vocalist and Harmonium player,  Anzar Rasool Bhat- Guitarist and Mohsin Manzoor Lone- Cajon player. All the three music enthusiasts belong to the Sheeri area of Baramulla district.  

Owais Nabi Ganaie, the senior vocalist of the team and a music enthusiast, told Rising Kashmir that the main motive of their initiative is to train students in various fields ranging from vocals to instruments.

"Music is not just singing and dancing, it is education and should be taught like other regular subjects. Students of the academy would learn a range of musical instruments besides learning vocals”, Owais said.

He said youth of Kashmir are indulging in substance abuse and to safeguard society and in particular the youth, teaching and learning music will play a great role. “So, establishing a music academy is a step towards that goal where we can see a drug free Kashmir.” 

Senior vocalist Owais has also performed at Indian Idol Audition 2022 and has already cleared four stages. 

The inauguration ceremony was attended by a large number of people including music enthusiasts, activists and other prominent personalities.

Activist Shoaib Lone said it is a courageous step to start a music academy in the Sheeri area of Baramulla. 

"This academy should establish itself as a regular educational institute so that aspiring and budding artists get proper training and platform,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, Professor Tariq Chalkoo said that the achievements of youngsters in the field of music and other activities are a testimony to the talent North Kashmir possesses.

He exhorted upon the youth to get themselves into such institutes to develop and hone their music skills.

"This area of Sheeri in Baramulla has of late witnessed enormous talent coming to the forefront. We are witnessing drug abuse and unemployment and such start-ups will be an inspiration for the youth," Professor added. 

At the inaugural ceremony, the artists enthralled the audience with their stellar performances. 

The team launched the band under the name of Kohinoor Musical Band and have attended several musical concerts in and out of Jammu and Kashmir. The band was declared winners in the 'Battle of Bands' competition this year.