Harmonic Confluence: Where Cultures Meet in Music

Program Description

This captivating program highlights the power of collaboration between musical traditions, blending the improvisational depth of jazz, the structured beauty of Indian ragas, and the emotive storytelling of Kathak dance. Each piece reflects the ensemble’s mission to inspire dialogue and connection through the arts, delivering a dynamic experience that is visually and sonically unforgettable.

To further immerse audiences in the cross-cultural journey, rich and compelling visual imagery from various regions of India will be projected throughout the performance. These visuals—ranging from serene landscapes and vibrant cultural festivals to iconic architecture and traditional artistry—serve to contextualize the music and dance, creating a multi-sensory experience. This optional AV component requires the performing arts venue to provide projection capabilities and a dedicated AV technician.

Sample Program

Each half of the program is 45–50 minutes in length, with a 15-minute intermission.

First Half

1. Invocation: Morning Raga
   Composed by Nabin Shrestha
   A meditative opening rooted in Indian classical music, introducing the tabla and bansuri with improvisational passages that evoke the serenity of a sunrise. Projected visuals: tranquil morning scenes of India's landscapes.

2. Kathak Rhythmscape
   Choreographed by Sarah Morelli
   A spellbinding duet of music and dance, showcasing Kathak's intricate footwork synchronized with dynamic tabla patterns and bass lines. Projected visuals: close-ups of intricate Kathak jewelry and costume patterns.

3. Journey to Narmada
   Composed by Kanniks Kannikeswaran
   A three-movement tribute to the cultural and spiritual significance of India's sacred rivers, reflecting a deep reverence for water as a source of life and connection. Projected visuals: flowing rivers, temple rituals, and Anjan’s personal journey to the Narmada River.

4. Sentimental Mood
   Duke Ellington, Arranged by Anjan Shah
   A reimagining of a classic jazz tune, creating a dialogue between bansuri and guitar. Projected visuals: vintage jazz posters and footage from historic performances.

5. Chasing Shadows
   Composed by Anoushka Shankar, Arranged by Vince Norman
   A brief, evocative piece blending Indian classical traditions with contemporary global sounds, featuring intricate interplay between the bansuri, guitar, and tabla. Projected visuals: abstract patterns inspired by shadow play and Indian mandalas.

Intermission

Second Half

1. Sonata in राग जोग (Raag Jog)
   Composed by Drew Zaremba
   A blending of traditional raga elements with lush harmonies and jazz improvisation, creating a sweeping, cinematic soundscape. Projected visuals: artistic interpretations of raga themes with bold colors and flowing shapes.

2. Kathak: Stories in Rhythm
   Choreographed by Sarah Morelli
   A performance blending Kathak dance and music, telling a story through rhythmic complexity and emotive expression. Projected visuals: Indian storytelling traditions, from miniature paintings to live dance sequences.

3. Lullaby from the Life of Pi
   Composed by Mychael Danna, Arranged by Vince Norman
   A selection from the Oscar-winning score, reimagined with tabla, bansuri, guitar, and bass to evoke themes of survival and spirituality. Projected visuals: iconic imagery from the Life of Pi story, focusing on its spiritual undertones.

4. Folk Impressions: Melodies Reimagined (Om Jai Jagdish Hare Aarti)
   Traditional Indian folk melodies, arranged by the ensemble
   A fresh take on the beloved devotional hymn, uniting communities in spiritual harmony. Projected visuals: scenes of devotional ceremonies across India.

5. Caravan
   Composed by Juan Tizol, Arranged by Amy Shook & Nabin Shrestha
   An energetic, celebratory piece combining all elements of the ensemble’s artistry, leaving the audience on a high note. Projected visuals: vibrant festival imagery and ensemble performance close-ups.

Additional Considerations

• AV Requirements:
  A high-resolution projector, screen, and an AV technician are essential. The AV component requires additional time for rehearsal to synchronize visuals with music and dance.

• Backline Budget:
  Include a line item for AV coordination and possible licensing fees for visual assets if sourced externally.