𝐀𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐣𝐢

Hailing from Bakla, Mongar, Dechen Dorji recently graduated from high school and is currently pursuing a degree at Paro College of Education. Raised by a single mother, Dechen’s life has been profoundly influenced by his unwavering passion for music, which he values far more than material wealth. Music has been his guiding light, profoundly shaping his life by bringing him joy, offering an emotional outlet, and forging deep connections with others.

From an early age, Dechen has been captivated by a variety of musical genres, finding solace and inspiration in melodies and rhythms. As he looks to the future, he is eager to further explore and develop his musical talents, with the goal of making a positive impact on the world through his passion. For Dechen, music is not just a hobby- it is a profound calling that defines his identity and drives his ambitions.

Q:Q. Could you share insights into the financial aspects of pursuing music?
A: I create music for young people who might not have much money. I charge between 1500 to 3000 for each song, keeping it affordable so more youth can enjoy music. My goal is to make sure everyone can experience music’s joy and express themselves creatively without worrying about high costs. Each song I make is crafted with care to connect with listeners and support young talents starting their musical journeys.

Q. How have you managed to afford purchasing musical instruments while balancing your responsibilities as a young college student engaged in teaching practice?
A: I worked in road construction, earning 700 per day. However, after deducting food expenses, I only received 333 in hand. Discussing it with my mom, I decided to move to Thimphu for better opportunities. In Thimphu, I found work in electrical services and received an advance payment of 5000. With additional support from my uncle, who gave me 6000, I managed to gather 11000 in total. This allowed me to fulfill a long-held dream—I bought a piano costing 11000. It was a thrilling moment for me because playing the piano had always been a dream of mine. When the piano arrived, I wasted no time and immediately began learning to play. Though challenging at first, I was determined to practice daily and improve my skills. Buying the piano was a significant investment, both financially and personally. It symbolized my passion for music and my dedication to pursuing it despite obstacles. Learning to play has been a rewarding journey, allowing me to express myself creatively and find joy in music. Reflecting on my journey, I’m grateful for the opportunities I found in Thimphu and the unwavering support of my family, especially my uncle. The piano remains a cherished possession, reminding me of the hard work and determination that brought me here and the happiness of pursuing my passion.

Q. Is it viable to sustain oneself through music in Bhutan?
A: It can be tough to make a living from music in Bhutan, but it’s possible if you’re dedicated and creative. Even though the music scene is smaller compared to bigger countries, there are chances to perform at events, cultural programs, and collaborate with local artists. Many musicians also earn money by teaching, performing gigs, and composing music for different media. To succeed, you need to stay determined, build connections, and be flexible to meet the needs of the market.

Q. Do you think you could achieve success like Lopen Sonam Tenzin from Yangchenphu School, who not only composes songs but also teaches at the school?
A: Lopen Sonam Tenzin is renowned as one of Bhutan’s top song composers. Personally, I admire his achievements and aspire to emulate his success. Teaching is my career and a crucial part of my life I cannot envision leaving it. Simultaneously, music and composing are my deepest passions, driving my creative spirit. Like Lopen Sonam Tenzin, I am committed to balancing both aspects of my life. Teaching provides stability and fulfillment, allowing me to make a positive impact on young minds. Meanwhile, music offers me a channel for self-expression and creativity that complements my teaching role. I am inspired by Lopen Sonam Tenzin’s ability to excel in both teaching and music composition. His dedication and achievements motivate me to pursue my dual passions wholeheartedly. By following his example of perseverance and commitment, I aim to contribute meaningfully to both education and the arts, enriching lives through teaching and music alike.

Q. What are your thoughts on the prospect of creating music for the Bhutanese film industry if given the opportunity?
A: If given the opportunity by the Bhutanese film industry to create music, I would be incredibly excited and honored. It would be a chance to contribute my passion for music to storytelling, enhancing the emotional depth and impact of films. I would approach each project with dedication, aiming to create compositions that resonate with audiences and elevate the cinematic experience. Collaborating with filmmakers and artists in Bhutan would also be a tremendous learning opportunity, allowing me to grow as a musician and expand my creative horizons. Overall, being part of the Bhutanese film industry through music would be a dream come true, aligning perfectly with my aspirations and love for both music and storytelling.

Q. How much music have you created this year, and how proud do you feel of your accomplishments in music making?
A: This year, I’ve managed to create about 5 to 6 pieces of music. Looking ahead, my goal is to consistently produce one song per month, provided there are no other commitments. Each composition represents a significant accomplishment for me, reflecting my dedication and passion for music. Feeling proud of my achievements stems from the challenges I’ve faced along the way. From balancing my responsibilities to refining my skills, every piece of music I create is a testament to my perseverance. Each song carries a unique story and emotion, making the creative process both fulfilling and rewarding. The journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been immensely gratifying. Overcoming obstacles and pushing myself creatively has strengthened my resolve to continue pursuing my musical aspirations. Whether it’s composing, arranging, or experimenting with different genres, each project contributes to my growth as a musician.

Message:

Dechen Dorji emphasizes that composers should create music that reflects their personal emotions and unique style, staying true to their artistic vision. He advises regular practice to refine composing skills and explore new techniques daily. Seeking constructive feedback from peers and mentors is crucial for growth and improving compositions. Dorji encourages composers to explore diverse musical genres and styles, believing it enriches creativity. He highlights the importance of drawing inspiration from nature, personal experiences, and other art forms to sustain continuous creativity.