Live Sitar and Surbahar Concert Performances
Experience the spontaneous energy of Indian classical music. These moments capture the unique connection between artist and audience during my recent concerts and baithaks.
An excerpt from my concert in Ahmedabad, playing Raag Jhinjhoti. Performing live allows for a unique connection with the audience, and the music reflects that shared experience.
A clip from a recent baithak, or intimate house concert, in Pune. These smaller settings allow for a very personal and detailed musical conversation between the artist, the accompanist, and the listeners.
Playing Raag Shuddha Kalyan at a music festival in Dombivli, Mumbai. The energy of a festival performance is always special, and it's a joy to share the stage with talented tabla artists.
A performance of a Thumri in Raag Kafi, celebrating the festival of Holi. Light classical forms like Thumri are often part of my concerts, adding a different flavor to the performance.
Playing a Thumri in Raag Mishra Piloo on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami. Live performances for festive events carry a special devotional energy that I try to convey through my music.
My attempt at an Afghan Dhun in Raag Mishra Khamaj, a piece popularized by the great Ustad Rais Khan. It's always a pleasure to pay homage to the masters during a live performance.
A moment from a live concert at Savitri Bai Phule Pune University. Performing on stage with a tabla accompanist is a special experience, capturing the true spirit and interactive energy of Indian classical music.
About Live Concert Performances
Whether it is a quiet, intimate Shravan Baithak in Pune or a larger festival stage, my live performances focus on the spontaneous 'bhav' (emotion) that develops between the artist and the audience. I do not follow a fixed setlist; the choice of Raag and its elaboration shifts based on the setting, the acoustic space, and the energy in the room at that moment.
Performing live is the ultimate test for any classical musician. It is where my lifelong 'riyaz' meets the listener. Unlike studio recordings where everything is perfect, a live performance is a living conversation. When I play Raag Jhinjhoti or a Thumri in Raag Kafi, the interaction with the tabla player and the presence of the audience directly influence the tempo and the depth of the taans.
My Approach to Live Performances
- Intimate Baithaks: These are my favorite. Sitting close to the listeners allows for a detailed exploration of the notes. It is perfect for private gatherings, home concerts, or smaller cultural events where the subtle nuances of the Sitar are best heard.
- Festivals & Concerts: Larger stages like university auditoriums or music festivals allow for a more expansive sound. Here, the Surbahar creates a deep, meditative atmosphere, while the Sitar brings in melodic brightness.
- Authentic Tradition: I pay homage to the masters who came before me, often playing dhuns popularized by legends like Ustad Rais Khan. My goal is to keep the traditional spirit of Indian instrumental music alive.
Why Book a Live Performance?
If you are planning an event—be it a corporate cultural evening, a wedding reception, or a spiritual gathering—live music adds a soul that recordings cannot replicate. I am available for performances across India. Please reach out to discuss your event requirements, and we can plan a setlist that fits the mood of your gathering perfectly.
Aniruddha Joshi
Namaskar, I am Aniruddha Joshi. For me, these live performances are where my devotion to the Sitar and Surbahar becomes a shared experience with the audience. I would be honoured to bring the authenticity of Indian classical music to your next gathering.
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