Raga Unveiled – The History and Essence of North Indian Classical Music
All admission $10
Please book in advance. Tickets NOT sold at venue
Basant Bahar is a non-profit organization for the promotion and preservation of the precious heritage of North Indian (Hindustani) Classical Music and Dance.
Based in the San Francisco bay area, Basant Bahar was established in 1982, and is managed by a team of dedicated volunteers, who are passionate music lovers and musicians themselves.
It is the mission of Basant Bahar to present artists of outstanding merit to audiences in the San Francisco Bay area and to provide a platform for up and coming artists to present their talent to Bay area’s discerning music audiences.
eMail: contact@basantbahar.org
Phone: 510 870 2244
Mailing address: 4640 Phebe Ave – Fremont, CA 94555 (San Francisco bay area)
For some more details please check the website www.basantbahar.org
(Source: 07/2009 – Basant Bahar Newsletter (Mailing List))
(Official) “Raga unveiled” Trailer…
Raga Unveiled Synopsis
Philosophy and History
2 DVD Set | Shot in HD (4 hrs. 20 min.) PAL and NTSC comptatible
Here, the fundamental understanding of pure sound as understood by the sages is expressed. Its primary purpose to attain Self Transcendence is covered.
Sound as described in the Vedas, the chantings of the hymns, the more basic folk or deshi renderings, to the development of Ragas all culminate beautifully and bring you to the modern era. The historical and social influences are also covered.
Note and Melody
The meaning of raga and its grammar is clearly unfolded through the help of interviews, demos and beautiful and informative visual graphics. Many wonderful performances are also interspersed.
Tempo and Rhythm
The unique role of rhythm as an equal limb of Raga music is most articulately emphasized. All the different components of the Indian rhythmic system are laid out, followed by befitting demos and graphics. Its brilliance shines forth through the explanations and performance clips.
Moods and Emotions
The Rasa’s or moods and emotions in a raga are described and the techniques by which they are infused in the music are beautifully demonstrated by many stalwarts. Covering the importance of the audience in this equation brings out a very unique aspect of this music.
Improvisation
The hallmark of the raga music being the ability to play or sing for unlimited time, is driven very clearly in this chapter. A fantastic example in the form of a 6 person ensemble making music on the spot is perhaps the highlight of this film!
Master and Disciple
The extraordinary system of oral transmission of knowledge from teacher to pupil, and all the subtle nuances of this relationship are covered.
Lineage
Some light is thrown on the system of schools or lineage within the vocal and instrumental genres.
Training and Performance
The ability to be able to perform for such lengths of time and improvise requires a certain extraordinary type of grooming and training system and dedication from the disciple and the guru. Here a glimpse of this is shown leading into how one prepares to become a performer.
Compositional Styles
The journey of the older Dhrupad forms to the present Khyal singing is well explained. Some of the major light classical genres are illuminated. Wonderful renderings of each genre makes this chapter delightful to view.
Instruments
The classification of the instrumental categories are explained. Some unique aspects of Indian instruments are covered. A great tribute is paid to the instrument makers as well. Also covers a sweeping look at the cottage industries that create these exquisite instruments.
Points to Ponder
Here, many great musicians voice their opinions on todays influences on the musical scene with some heartwarming pledges to keep this wonderful heritage alive.
IMC - India meets Classic presents ... 