Interviews
Indian-American pianist Kunal Lahiry, a BBC New Generation Artist and 2021 Carl Bechstein Foundation scholar, has left an indelible mark on prestigious stages worldwide, from Wigmore Hall in London to the Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg. His performances have graced renowned festivals, captivating audiences with his exceptional artistry. A trailblazer in commissioning
Music of India
In the northeastern state of Manipur, nestled amid verdant landscapes and rich cultural heritage, thrives an art form steeped in elegance and storytelling finesse: Manipuri classical dance. A dance form renowned for its gentle and lyrical movements, Manipuri dance is a captivating visual narrative that echoes the cultural essence of
In the world of music, few genres possess the timeless allure and profound impact on human emotions and cognition quite like classical music. Its complex melodies, rich harmonies, and intricate compositions have long fascinated and moved listeners on a deeply emotional and intellectual level. Beyond mere entertainment, classical music possesses
Music Education
On December 29, 1876, a prodigious talent was born in Catalonia, Spain—a talent that would leave an indelible mark on the world of classical music. Pablo Casals, a virtuoso cellist, conductor, and humanitarian, emerged as one of the most influential figures in the realm of Western classical music, shaping
Throwback Thursday
Classical music’s timeless allure has transcended generations, leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of pop culture. From its earliest appearances on the silver screen to its contemporary prominence in the digital age, classical compositions have continuously resonated with audiences, shaping and enhancing various facets of popular culture. Cinematic
Features
“Maestro” is a word that resonates across concert music. From the Italian word for master, it is applied most frequently to a respected and established conductor of operas and orchestras but can also be used to refer to virtuoso instrumentalists. Despite its gendered form (male), the term has been regularly
Music of India
The Nāṭya Śāstra, originally written in Sanskrit (नाट्य शास्त्र) and found in Kannada (ನಾಟ್ಯಶಾಸ್ತ್ರ) and Telugu (నాట్య శాస్త్ర) translations, stands as a seminal Sanskrit treatise on the performing arts. Traditionally attributed to the sage Bharata,
Know Your Composer
As dean of the Second Viennese School, Arnold Schoenberg was one of the twentieth century’s greatest exponents of atonal music. Yet, Schoenberg resisted dogma. Long after developing his twelve-tone system, he asserted that “there is still much good music to be written in C major.” Weihnachtsmusik (“Christmas Music”) is
Music of India
Jayadeva, also spelled Jaideva, remains a luminary figure in Sanskrit literature, flourishing during the 12th century. His indelible mark lies in the celebrated epic poem, the ‘Gita Govinda,’ a magnum opus that intricately weaves the tale of Krishna’s impassioned love for the gopi, Radha, against the backdrop of spring.
Know Your Composer
The Symphony Orchestra of India, resident at the NCPA in Mumbai, is blessed with the harmony in diversity of many nationalities among its musicians. The unique sound of this young-in-years, musically maturing ensemble reflects not only the virtuosity of the players but also their international cultural contexts and training pedigrees.
Music of India
It hosts India’s oldest classical music festival, the Harballabh Sangeet Sammelan, and is home to at least two gharanas of vocal music and one of percussive music. It is the birthplace of some of the biggest icons of the Hindustani form. Its sacred music is rooted in dhrupad and
Christmas, as a theme in classical music, finds its origins intertwined with the earliest manifestations of musical expression. Gregorian chants, with their ethereal cadence, served as the foundational blocks for the sonic representation of the Nativity. These chants, echoing through the stone arches of ancient churches, bore witness to the
