AN INDIAN classical musical tradition dating back half a millennium will continue this weekend with a performance in Rugby.
The May Mahotsavam event will showcase Indian Carnatic classical music – a 500-year-old musical art form from southern India which involves playing traditional compositions with the artists adding their own creative improvisations.
The event, which is now in its fifth year in Rugby, aims to bring Indian classical music to wider community and different cultures.
It also aims to bring different facets of music including a ‘luthier meet and greet opportunity’ by Libby Summers of Stamford music.
The performance will feature violin, vocal and percussion performances, an interactive session celebrating the works of the iconic composer Muthuswamy Dikshitar on the 250th anniversary of his birth, and a mohiniattam dance performance by Remya Nambiar.
It will also feature East Meets West, a fusion collaboration between digeridoo player Jono Guinness and Indian percussionists.
Organiser and violinist Srividya Venkat – a performing artist, teacher and musical event organiser – said she started the event in 2022 to provide a platform for her musical students and professional adult performers, to bring their music to a wider audience, and to make it more inclusive.
She said: “I felt the need for a professional platform focused primarily on Indian classical music. “Considering the rich musical legacy of over 500 years, I want the wider community to appreciate and listen to music that is aesthetically pleasing and has a cultivated history.
“It is a nice feeling and makes me proud of the diverse musical heritage I carry forward.
“Music is a language of no words, and it is fascinating how different music shares similarities and blends so well. I hope different members of the audience can relate to special parts in the music tailored for them.”
The performances take place across a series of sessions from 10am to 4.30pm on Saturday (May 23) at the Dunchurch Sportsfield and Village Hall.
The luthier meet and greet takes place from 2pm to 3.30pm at the Village Hall community room.
Call 07436 118765 or email [email protected] for more information.
