It was truly a splendor of masters as each performer did his best to enthral the audience.
Held at the Chowdiah Hall recently, the third edition of ‘Splendor Of Masters’, a unique music concert organised by Banyan Tree, succeeded to entertain the audience for more than three hours. All the eight musicians, who are experts in their chosen fields, treated the audience to some of the finest tunes.
Grammy-award winning ghatam maestro Vikku Vinayakram, veteran sitarist Ustad Shujaat Khan, renowned violin duo Ganesh-Kumaresh, American saxophonist George Brooks, popular mridangam player Patri Satish Kumar and talented tabla players Amit Choubey and Ojus Adhiya put forth a brilliant show.
Ustad Shujaat Khan, the renowned sitarist, expressed his gratitude on behalf of the entire team. “It’s rare when we artistes get to play music together. We talk to each other in the language of music. People come for a show with a pre-conceived notion about music and performers. But without sticking to any rules, we will try to bring out different feel and moods,” he said before the starting of the show.
The unique ensemble began with a violin recital by Ganesh and Kumaresh, followed by a recital by George Brooks, the saxophonist. Other artistes gradually joined the concert as well. Music-lovers appreciated the unparalleled chemistry and perfect synergy between all of them. Ustad Shujaat Khan presented a ‘ghazal’ — Pyar Ka Jazbat Naya Rang Dikha Deta Hai — from the album of Ahmed Hussain and Mohammed Hussain titled ‘The Golden Moments’. This was enjoyed by all.
George Brooks, who hails from California, expressed his happiness on performing with the veteran artistes. “I am delighted to be here. I got an opportunity to play with extraordinary musicians. This week is special for me as my father, who I’m very close to, turned 85. I dedicate today’s performance to him,” he said emotionally.
Vikku Vinayakram joined the concert in the second session. He entertained the jam-packed audience with his inherent talent.
His experiment with five ghatams at a time was amazing. His fingers just danced on the earthen pots creating great music. His spontaneity and creativity was spellbinding.
Though each one represented a different style of music, they succeeded to blend Carnatic, Hindustani and Western aspects in a beautiful manner. Each one got enough time to showcase their talent.
The jugalbandi between Ganesh and Kumaresh on violin and Patri Satish Kumar on mridangam was completely enjoyable. The response was really good as the audience couldn’t stop clapping till the end.