Cadence Music Fest25 Celebrates Legends and New Talent
Music maestros and vocalists share the stage in an interactive session of pure rhythm.!!!!

Image: Instagram
Whistlingwoods recently set the stage for an unforgettable celebration of music and mentorship as it hosted the Cadence Music Fest25. The event, aimed at inspiring music students, brought together some of the most iconic voices from the Indian music industry alongside budding vocal talents. Veteran maestros such as Sonu Nigam, Irshad Kamil, Mithoon Sharma, Sameer Anjaan, Anu Malik, and Shahid Mohammed Rafi shared their wisdom in a dynamic interactive session that left both audience and students uplifted.
Event Highlights
The festival was marked by a unique blend of performances and interactive activities. Students had the opportunity to witness live demonstrations of instant song composition, as seasoned lyricists, music composers, and singers collaborated on stage. During the session, young performers including Raj Shekhar, Madhura Padave, Vaishnavi, and Samyak delivered impromptu renditions that were met with enthusiastic applause. Their ability to adapt and deliver soulful music in real time was a testament to the intensive training provided at the Whistlingwoods campus.
Interactive Music Sessions
The heart of the fest was the session where veteran music figures engaged directly with the students. Amidst discussions on technique and creativity, the artists composed new songs on the spot using original lyrics. The spontaneous energy of the session embodied the true spirit of music – a seamless blend of tradition and innovation. Attendees witnessed a vibrant display of musical improvisation that celebrated both the legends’ enduring legacies and the students’ fresh interpretations.
One of the most memorable moments was when Mithoon Sharma stunned the audience by instantly composing a melody on the piano, inspired by lyrics penned by Irshad Kamil. This impromptu creation, paired with the soulful vocals of the veterans, captivated the crowd and underscored the depth of their experience in the art. The session was a powerful reminder that music is not just a craft but a living, breathing art form that continues to evolve with each performance.
Scholarship Inauguration
In a significant move to further encourage musical excellence, the event also featured the inauguration of the MOHD RAFI SCHOLARSHIP. This prestigious scholarship, created to reward meritorious music students, was formally launched by Culture Minister Ashish Shelar. The scholarship initiative was warmly welcomed by the academic and artistic communities at Whistlingwoods, as it promises to nurture future generations of musicians by providing them with essential resources and recognition.
The festival’s organizers emphasized that the scholarship is not only a tribute to the legendary playback singer Mohammad Rafi but also a forward-looking initiative that underscores the importance of academic and practical training in music. Young artists were visibly moved by the gesture as they received insights directly from the stalwarts of the industry. The spirit of the fest was defined by this seamless integration of accolades and learning, bridging the gap between past achievements and future aspirations.
A Confluence Of Generations
The event was more than a celebratory gathering; it was a confluence of generations in music. As students observed the detailed nuances of performance art from icons like Sonu Nigam and Anu Malik, they were encouraged to explore the depths of their own creativity. The interactive session allowed for a mentoring environment where questions were answered, tips were shared, and personal anecdotes from the legends provided context to decades of musical evolution.
Adding another layer of excitement to the day was the presence of renowned film personality Subhash Ghai, whose contributions to the Indian film and music industry have long been celebrated. His appearance and supportive remarks underscored the multidisciplinary influence that music festivals like Cadence Music Fest25 have on the creative industries. Subhash Ghai’s legacy, detailed on reputable sources such as his comprehensive biography, parallels the innovative drive witnessed at the fest—a drive that inspires both established and emerging artists.
The festival also resonated strongly with social media audiences. Several related Instagram posts captured moments from the event, showcasing the animated interactions between the masters and the students. These digital snapshots offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the passion and dedication that defined the day. Students and fans alike shared their experiences, praising the effortless blend of learning and entertainment featured at the campus.
The Whistlingwoods campus buzzed with energy as music enthusiasts and aspiring artists gathered to celebrate the art of song. The festival not only provided a platform for masterclasses in composition and performance but also reinforced the idea that musical expression is a shared legacy. As the day concluded, it was clear that Cadence Music Fest25 was more than just an event—it was a powerful reminder of the enduring connection between music masters and the new voices continuing their art.
In an era when music is both a commercial powerhouse and a core cultural element, events like Cadence Music Fest25 serve as vital platforms for education, inspiration, and celebration. The dialogue between the legends and the next generation created a rich tapestry of musical tradition that will undoubtedly inspire creative pursuits for years to come.

Read full bio of Preeti Jha