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 Swimming Relay
Toshala Elliott Auckland, New ZealandSri Chinmoy's biography, written by one of the most famous Bengali authors
Mahatapa Palit New York, United StatesCelebrating birthdays at Guru's house
Devashishu Torpy London, United Kingdom'Christ has stolen her heart and brought it now to me'
Dodula and Gunthita Zurich, SwitzerlandThe Peace Run visits Oxford
Tejvan Pettinger Oxford, United KingdomCheck your Front Tire
Arpan De Angelo New York, United StatesSpiritual moments with my grandmother
Patanga Cordeiro São Paulo, BrazilIn the Right Place, At the Right Time
Eshana Gadjanski Novi Sad, SerbiaThe first time that I really understood that I had a soul
Jogyata Dallas Auckland, New ZealandThe Ever-Transcending Goal
Preetidutta Thorpe Auckland, New ZealandPraying for God’s Grace to Descend
Sweta Pradhan Kathmandu, NepalYou only have to keep your eyes and ears open
Gannika Wiesenberger Linz, AustriaPatanga: my spiritual name
Patanga Cordeiro São Paulo, BrazilSuggested videos
interviews with Sri Chinmoy's students