The Story of the Raga: A Historical Survey of Indian Classical Music followed by a Musical Recital

Date:     Saturday, May - 12, 2018
Time:    6 pm-8.30 pm
Location:   Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Road, Palo Alto, CA 94303

SACHI, Society for Art & Cultural Heritage of India
in collaboration with Palo Alto Art Center is proud to present

Priya Purushothaman, Hindustani Vocalist, and Visiting Mumbai Artist

In a 2-part, Lecture Demonstration and Performance

Part 1: Lecture-Demonstration

The essence of Indian classical music comes down to its underpinning concept: the raga. What is a raga, and where can we trace its origins? This presentation looks at the complex multi-cultural history of Hindustani Raga music – starting from the theory of roots in Vedic chanting, and evolving to the modern day rendition of khayal, a versatile and highly imaginative form, born out of diverse musical traditions.

The talk will examine critical junctures of change and innovation in the music’s evolution, and explore the variety of musical forms that emerged and became an important part of Hindustani Classical Music vocabulary.

Part 2: Music Recital

The second half of the program will be a Hindustani Classical Music recital, presenting the traditional khayal format as well as a few examples from semi-classical forms.

Priya Purushothaman is part of the new vanguard of young and diverse Hindustani vocalists. She is a disciple of Bangalore-based guru Aditi Kaikini Upadhya. Priya has also received training from the late stalwart musician and scholar, Pandit Dinkar Kaikini and and from noted vocalist, Mrs. Shashikala Kaikini. Currently she is also under the guidance of Pandit Sudhindhra Bhaumik in Mumbai. Her style captures the vibrant spirit of the Agra Gharana (lineage of music), known for sweeping melodic contours and lively rhythmic interplay.

Fees: $50 Priority Admission, reserved seating; $30 General Admission, open seating

SACHI Members receive 20% discount admission

RSVP for reservations, ticketing: info@sachi.org 650-400-3696.

Tickets can also be purchased online  with an added vendor fee.