London Symphony Orchestra in India after 46-year gap

The London Symphony Orchestra, in India on its first visit since 1964, is open to working with contemporary Indian composers, its managing director said.

The London Symphony Orchestra, in India on its first visit since 1964, is open to working with contemporary Indian composers, its managing director said.

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"We are open to working with contemporary Indian composers," Kathryn McDowell said, ahead of the Orchestra's two concerts in Mumbai.

LSO has so far not done any Bolllywood scores but there is no reason not to, a member of the Orchestra said.

"We would be 'delighted' to do some Bollywood film," he added.

Replying to a query on the role of a conductor in an orchestra, LSO conductor Sir Colin Davis said, "Members of an orchestra don't have scores in front of them. If they had, they wouldn't be playing anything,but would be just turning the pages."

Asked if LSO would take up training in western classical music in India, Kathryn said, "We would be very happy to work with local initiatives on this front."

LSO will perform two concerts in Mumbai, conducted by Sir Colin and Kristjan Jarvi, at the National Centre for the Performing Arts, on Friday and Saturday.

Kathryn said, "LSO is happy to have the support of Oberoi Resorts and Hotels, 100 Pipers Pure Music, the Standard Chartered Private Bank and Vodafone for the LSO tour."