Rahul Hirlekar

Rahul Hirlekar is a versatile Harmonium, Piano, and Keyboard artist, known for his expressive playing and musical sensitivity. Born into a cultured and spiritually inclined middle-class family, Rahul’s journey into music began at the tender age of five, inspired and guided by his mother—an accomplished sitar player and vocalist.

Nurtured in an environment steeped in music and values, he began his formal training in harmonium under the careful supervision of his mother. His passion for music flourished alongside academics. Rahul completed his schooling at IES School in Navi Mumbai, where he actively participated and won accolades in various inter-school music competitions. He later pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Ruia College, balancing both his academic and musical pursuits.

Furthering his musical education, Rahul went on to obtain postgraduate training in music from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya, one of the most respected music institutions in India. He has had the honour of learning under the tutelage of Seema Shirodkar and Arun Kerkar, refining his skills in harmonium and keyboard playing.

Performances and Career – Rahul Hirlekar

Rahul Hirlekar is an accomplished Harmonium, Keyboard, and Piano player with a strong background in Indian classical and contemporary fusion music. He has been active as a freelance artist, performing with well-known bands, corporate setups, and stage shows across India and abroad.

Notable Performances:

1. Theatre & Musical Collaboration (2010–2012):

   • Performed in concerts with renowned lyricist and singer Swanand Kirkire for his musical play "Aao Saathi Sapna Dekhein".

2. Corporate Events (2012):

   • Played at multiple corporate launch events, including product launches and website inauguration ceremonies.

3. Fusion Music with “Urja” (2012):

   • Collaborated with Chintan Katti’s fusion band “Urja”, delivering energetic and soulful fusion performances.

4. Jazz Piano Solo at NCPA (2012):

   • Delivered a Jazz piano solo performance at NCPA Mumbai during a prestigious high-scorer’s musical event.

5. Live Concert at DY Patil Stadium (2013):

   • Featured in the grand musical show “Nhau Tujhiya Preme” performed live at Dr. D.Y. Patil Stadium, drawing large crowds and media attention.

6. International Performance – Dubai (2014):

   • Participated in the Sangeet Festival, Dubai, with Chirag Katti’s fusion band “String Rhapsody”, showcasing a blend of Indian classical and modern music styles.

Awards and Achievements – Rahul Hirlekar

1. Scholarship in Harmonium

   • Awarded the prestigious CCRT (Centre for Cultural Resources and Training) Scholarship in harmonium by the Government of India, Ministry of Culture, New Delhi.

2. Academic Excellence

   • Emerged as the top scorer in the Master’s in Music (Harmonium) examination across India in 2011, receiving national recognition for academic excellence.

3. National Level Recognition

   • Gold Medalist in the event of Indian Group Song at the National Level Inter-University Youth Festival – 'KALAI SARAL' (2006–2007) held in Chennai.

4. University Representation

   • Represented the Mumbai University team as a harmonium accompanist in State, Zonal, and National Level cultural festivals during 2006–07.

   • Also represented school and college in numerous inter-collegiate classical instrumental competitions and won multiple awards.

5. Prominent Youth Festivals & Events

   • Delivered acclaimed performances at top Mumbai youth cultural festivals like ANDREAMZ (St. Andrew’s College) and UMANG (N.M. College), receiving high praise for his musical accompaniment and solo performances.