Free concert - an exploration of the musical heritage of Bengal
The region of Bengal (comprising the country of Bangladesh, as well as the Indian state of West Bengal) has the richest musical tradition in the entire Indian subcontinent. The tradition dates back to the time of the Vedic seers, but over the centuries it has been influenced by the many spiritual currents that have passed through the lands, from devotional Hinduism to the Sufi branceh of Islam. Many of the songs have a universal appeal to Bengalis, and are sung by people across the land regardless of caste or religion.
This evening will feature the songs of Bengal’s most revered poet and songsmith, Nobel Prize winner Rabindranath Tagore (1860-1941), and its most prolific composer, Sri Chinmoy (1931-2007), who wrote over 13,000 Bengali songs.
The artists
Avik Deb is an accomplised singer from northern Bangladesh, and a graduate of the renowned Shurer Dhara music school in Dhaka under the expert tutelage of Rezwana Choudhury Bannya, one of the world’s foremost singers of Rabindrasangeet (Tagore songs).
Accompanying himself on harmonium, he will also be joined by Sadanand Magee on tabla, who has performed in over 20 countries as part of the international Songs of the Soul concert series. Avik is currently on a short tour playing concerts in the UK and Ireland.
For more information call 085-1450880, or get in touch with us on our contact form
Stories
First-hand experiences of meditation and spirituality.
The Random Dog
Toshala Elliott Auckland, New ZealandMy first Guru
Adarini Inkei Geneva, SwitzerlandIf I could remember this in my daily life now, I'd be a very high soul
Charana Evans Cardiff, WalesFilled with deepest joy
Tirtha Voelckner Munich, GermanyLearning to love songs ever more
Patanga Cordeiro São Paulo, BrazilA love that was thick like butter
Mahatapa Palit New York, United StatesThe day I recieved my spiritual name
Banshidhar Medeiros San Juan, Puerto Rico10-Day Race: Staring into the Infinite
Patanga Cordeiro São Paulo, BrazilA Quest for Happiness
Abhinabha Tangerman Amsterdam, NetherlandsConnecting the dots
Lunthita Duthely Hialeah, United StatesBelieve, take a step and proceed: a 6-day race experience
Susan Marshall ,The day I saw my Guru's Third Eye
Vidura Groulx Montreal, CanadaRunning for Peace
Jogyata Dallas Auckland, New ZealandSuggested videos
interviews with Sri Chinmoy's students