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Ragas for the end of summer

Duo presents an evening of classical Indian music Friday.
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Utpal Mazumdar (left) and Raj Rangayyan

This Friday, August 23 at 8 p.m. at the College of the Rockies Lecture Theatre, Raj Rangayyan and Utpal Mazumdar will present an evening of classical Indian music, playing the bansuri (bamboo flute) and tabla (Indian drums). Admission is free.

The classical music of India is founded on melodic concepts or musical structures called ragas. Each raga embodies melodic and musical characteristics related to our moods and feelings at every moment of the day and every occasion. An appropriately chosen raga is designed to help you relax and enjoy your activities at any time of the day. In this concert Raj and Utpal will share their extensive knowledge to help the lay audience understand the Indian raga.

Both Raj and Utpal have a wealth of experience on their instruments. Raj received training on the bansuri from Sri K.P. Shepoy and on the sitar from Sri N.R. Rama Rao in India. He has performed in India, Canada and Brazil. His arrangements include innovative combinations of many styles of instruments and music.

Utpal is an expert percussionist with the tabla and the pakhawaj (drums of India). He studied voice and the tabla in India and is active in Calgary music circles playing bluegrass and jazz, as well as accompanying visiting artists. He has appeared on several CDs with Canadian Flamenco, Latino and Celtic musicians and with the Calgary Boys' Choir.

Raj and Utpal have been performing together in Calgary for over 25 years. In addition to giving many performances, they regularly provide lecture-demonstrations in courses on World Music at the University of Calgary.

This evening concert will provide a peaceful end to your busy week!