Indian-origin Danish conductor Maria Badstue recently visited Mumbai for the fourth time. However, this visit was different as she made time to explore the city’s art and dining scene. Badstue expressed her admiration for Mumbai’s unique atmosphere, saying, “It’s very different from anything I have seen anywhere else, and I really enjoy just being in the city and soaking in the atmosphere.”
Badstue’s performance at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) was a collaboration between the Symphony of India Chamber Orchestra and the Danish Chamber Players. She highlighted the importance of selecting pieces that showcased the instrumentation of the Danish Chamber Players, including Copland’s “Appalachian Spring,” Mahler’s “Adagietto,” and Beethoven’s “Symphony No. 5.”
Badstue credits her success to influential teachers and mentors, especially Jorma Panula, Esa Pekka Salonen, Daniel Barenboim, and Bernhard Haitink. She also acknowledged the impact of her collaboration with soprano Indira Mahajan in Portland, Oregon, praising her artistry and ability to broaden Badstue’s musical horizons.
Badstue expressed her enthusiasm for working with both the Symphony of India Chamber Orchestra and the Danish Chamber Players. She noted the similarities in their temperaments and working styles, despite their geographical differences. She believes that the Danish and Indian mentalities complement each other well.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Badstue immersed herself in Mumbai’s art and culinary offerings. She visited the Cymroza Art Gallery and dined at renowned restaurants such as The Table and Flamboyante. She remarked on the unique experience of being among people who share her Indian heritage, saying, “It’s still kind of a big experience for me just to have a walk on the Marine Drive or being in a restaurant.”
This visit to Mumbai left a lasting impression on Badstue, who described the city as “very different from anything I have seen anywhere else.” She expressed her love for Mumbai and its vibrant atmosphere, highlighting the city’s ability to captivate and inspire.