Introduction to South Asian Classical music - Part II

Today we continue the homage to South Asian classical music with some tunes from Ustad Sultan Khan (for more information on him & on all Desi classical music visit this very informative website).

Ustad Sultan Khan plays the sarangi which sounds very different than the sarod or sitar – more like a violin. A scion of illustrious lineage of sarangi players, beginning his training at age seven - he learned the rudiments from his father, Ustad Gulab Khan who was both an accomplished sarangi player and a vocalist. Little wonder then that the Ustad, like his father, always punctuates his concerts with vocal Amir khani nuances. When he picks up the sarangi to lilting Sargams where he has left off vocally, the succeeding notes emerge in continuation as though the sarangi sings.

The 3 selections are 1 {Sarangi} an instrumental. 2 {Surmai Aankhen} A Rajasthani folk duet with a singer named Chitra (a really beautiful song). 3 {Kate Nahi Raat Mori} A solo vocal in which he gets his instrument to literally 'sing' with him. 4. It turns out that among his large fan base are some of the world's top DJ's and they did a tribute album to him Link

Introduction to South Asian Classical music - Part I

This week's songs are a brief intro to South Asian classical music - certainly as deep & moving as it's European counterpart if not more so. South Asian classical music is performed with less instruments but the arrangements are just as complicated. Interestingly, the ragas (as the pieces are known) are written to be listened to according to the movements of the sun. Some are written specifically to be listened to as you are waking up at sunrise, some at noon and others as the moon is out as you are going to bed. It is said that each person will have their own preference as to when they most enjoy a particular raga - regardless of your personal choice, they are a great way to either begin or end your day.

The 1st song is one of Nilong's favorites - it is called {Panihari} or Water Lady. It primarily uses the sarod (12 other instruments accompany it) & is performed by the legendary Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. See album description here

The 2nd song is one of my favorites - using the very subtle instrument - {Santoor} - it is performed by Pandit Shivkumar Sharma.