Akshara is an exciting new percussion group rooted in Indian classical musical traditions. Comprised of virtuosic performers in Carnatic and Hindustani classical genres, Akshara performs an energetic blend of classical Indian melody and rhythm highlighted with solo and scale-based improvisations.
The group performs original compositions demonstrating the powerful and complex rhythmic structures inherent in South Indian classical music. The leading instrument is Mridangam, a double-barreled drum that produces a deep rich tone and played with both hands to highly complex rhythmic patterns. Other percussion instruments include the Tabla, the main North Indian percussion instrument, the Kanjira, a tambourine-like instrument with a bass tone and Morsing, an Indian version of the Jew's Harp. A unique feature is the use of vocal percussion, or Konnukol within the compositions. Melodic accompaniment is provided using Carnatic Violin, Flute and Vocals.
The repartee among performers creates a vivid and imaginative take on classical music. Audiences have appreciated its freshness and the work has already garnered critical acclaim.
Ensemble members include AR Balaskandan, a talented performer of mridangam and Carnatic violin, Arun Ramamurthy and Trina Basu on violin, G. Balaganesh on morsing and kanjira, Zach Knight on kanjira and Thejeswini Raj and Bina Viju on konnukol. Guest artists have included Nitin Mitta on tabla and Ilari Kaila on piano. Each member is an accomplished classical music artist and has performed worldwide as soloists and accompanists.
In it s debut year in 2007, Akshara performed in many venues including the Cambridge Multicultural Arts Center, Columbia University and Tamarind Art Gallery in NYC.
A full concert will last about 2 hours. A demo concert can be half an hour or up to an hour long. Akshara is also available for lecture demonstrations and workshops on South Indian Classical music & percussion.
Technical Requirements:
Mridangam 2 floor mikes (bass and sharp tone)
Tabla 1 floor mike
1-2 Violin 1-2 contact mikes or vocal microphones
2 Kanjira/Morsing 2 vocal mikes
2 vocals 2 vocal microphones
1-2 monitors, power strip for Sruti box
Listen to audio samples
For further details please email info@balaskandan.com
