A.R. Rahman: I’m still learning

Indian composer A.R. Rahman faced the music in Dubai during a school visit on Wednesday. The Oscar and Grammy winner was asked tough questions by students and parents at the Global Indian International School Dubai (GIIS Dubai) - but he managed to rise to the challenge. Rahman, 45,  was visiting the school to "inspire students" ahead of his Dubai concert on Friday. He held a question-answer session as part of the visit at the packed schoolground. A parent asked him which award had made him happier - winning India's third highest civilian honour (Padma Bhushan) or America's Academy Awards. "Well, the national award was first [of the two] so it felt like winning the Oscar," Rahman replied diplomatically. A father wanted him to "define success in simple terms". The singer-songwriter replied: "Each one of us is inspired with something... it is also blessings and good wishes from family and friends." And when a pupil wanted him to name one inspirational teacher, Rahman said: "I'm still learning today, there's no one teacher." He did, however, praised his father and music instructors. Rahman was also asked about his "contribution for the next ‘A. R. Rahmans'." "I'm sure they'll be better than me, not just as composers but in other jobs too," came the reply. The singer-songwriter advised pupils to "find yourselves, don't try to be someone else". "Be the best in whatever you want to do, and work hard. I know it's a cliché, but it's true," he added.   Afterwards, a student choir sang hits from Rahman's works as impromtu dance routines broke out in the audience.  School Vice-Chairman Kamal Kalwani said: "A.R. Rahman is a global Indian who always strives for excellence in his work... I'm delighted he took the time out to inspire the students." Rahman has been internationally acclaimed for the runaway hit song Jai Ho from the blockbuster Slumdog Millionaire. Time magazine described him as "the world's most prolific and popular composer" who has "an irrepressible melodic gift". Rahman live -    A.R. Rahman and his supporting artists will perform at Dubai International Cricket Stadium on December 9. -    Tickets can be bought online from the websites of TimeOut, Virgin Megastore and Box Office ME. -    Prices start at Dh100 for balcony seating to Dh1,000 for VVIP. Call: 04-391 3460