A few western musicians—such as George Harrison and John McLaughlin—have incorporated Indian classical music into their compositions. But it’s rare for Hollywood soundtracks to be filled with the sounds of the tabla, sitar, and sarod.
That’s what makes an upcoming event such a treat. At OSTād’s – An Indo-Western Instrumental Music Experience, several accomplished B.C.-based musicians will marry western movie scores to deeply emotional Indian classical music.
The lineup features sitarist and Capilano University instructor Mohamed Assani, cinematic pianist Navin Sahjpaul, violinist Varun Muralidharan, and sarodist and tabla artist Hriday Buddhdev. SHIAMAK Group of Companies CEO Glen D’Mello will direct OSTād’s. It will take place at 7 p.m. on Friday (March 13) at Alliance Française Vancouver (6161 Cambie Street).
According to Vancouver performing arts company Raga Echoes, it’s designed for mainstream audiences who love film music.
“From soulful ballads reminiscent of John Lennon and Adele to epic themes inspired by Hans Zimmer’s Interstellar, OSTād’s is an immersive, story-driven concert that bridges cultures, genres, and emotions,” Raga Echoes emphasizes.
In Persian, Central Asian, and South Asian cultures, ostad or ustad is a respectful title referring to an expert. craftsman or master. Raga Echoes says that the title of its event, OSTād’s, represents the fusion of “OST” (Original Soundtrack) and “Ustad” (Master).
Raga Echoes will present OSTād’s – An Indo-Western Instrumental Music Experience at 7 p.m. on Friday (March 13) at Alliance Française Vancouver (6161 Cambie Street). For tickets and more information, visit ragaechoes.com. The Bandish Network has been championing Raga Echoes, as well as offering advice and guidance to the company.
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