Sunil Gadgil
Naad Trust hosted its first annual event of Indian Classical Music on Saturday, August 29, 2015 at Mt Albert War Memorial Hall.
Called, ‘Parampara’ (Tradition), the event was organised to create awareness of the significance of Indian Classical Music mainly among the new generation.
Without such dedicated and constant efforts, our youngsters will be deprived of the enormous benefits of Indian Classical Music.
Despite a number of events held at various locations marking Raksha Bandhan, ‘Parampara’ had a house-full audience.
Sober singer
The programme began with a traditional vocal number by Balachandra Bhat,
His selection of Raag Shuddha Kalyaan was appropriate for that time though it is a difficult one. Though he had time limitation, was at ease to present all the three phases (slow Vilambit, medium Madhya Laya and fast Dhrut) in Khayaal Gayaki style of rich Kirana Gharana.
The bandishein were sober and full of devotion yet soothing.
He expressed the hidden Bhaava of the bandishein in his superb cultured voice. His layakaari and tans supported by excellent breath-control were applauded by an appreciative audience.
Mandolin artiste
Anand Thakore followed a session on the Mandolin with Raag Kirwani.
Though his Alaap was very short, the Jod/Jhaala was great. His coordination with Manjit Singh on the Tabla was excellent.
Various musical conversations between the two instruments were great and enjoyable. Anand was engrossed into the music presented varieties of gimmicks.
Highly energised efforts in his presentation was great entertainment.
Great Rhythm
Rhythm is imperative in any type of music and the Tabla solo by Manjit Singh and two of his students Gurpreet Singh (Tabla) and Harpreet Singh (Harmonium for Lehra) was a highlight of the programme.
Manjit exhibited his treasure of knowledge by playing different Bols and Kaaydas.
He also showed a few exercises of Pakhawaj, an ancient tradition used in Dhrupad style.
His students resounded good skill and they proved their hard work and dedication.
Refreshing experience
The second part of the programme was a new experience.
I
ndian Raag (Malhar and Ahir Bhairav) sung by Daljeet Kaur and played in Jazz style by Ben Fernandez, Joshua and Manjit. Her sweet voice added beauty to the fusion creation.
This Indo-Western Fusion presentation by Raag Time Trio was indeed melodious, which received widespread appreciation.
Naad Trust deserves our compliments and congratulations. It would have greater impact with the younger generation if Indian Classical Music is properly explained in simple and easy-to-understand language.
Parampara justified the traditional value and benefits of Indian Classical Music.
Sunil Gadgil is a resident of Auckland, with a keen interest in Hindustani Classical Music. Painting is his hobby with a number of exhibitions to his credit.
Photo:
- Balachandra Bhat singing with the support of Manjit Singh and Harpreet Singh respectively on the Tabla and Harmonium
- East meets West in Jazz style
