Shubhendra Rao

As a disciple of the legendary Pandit Ravi Shankar, I share my musical journey through sitar performances, from solo concerts to unique collaborations with the Indian cello. I am passionate about making classical music a joyous and accessible experience for all audiences.

My goal is to bring authentic classical music to young minds. Here I am with the staff at a school after an interactive concert and lecture-demonstration, part of my ongoing outreach efforts to make our heritage accessible to the next generation.

My music is a humble offering to my Guru, Pandit Ravi Shankar. In moments like these, I feel his presence guiding me, a connection that is the very soul of the Guru-Shishya tradition I pass on to my own students.

Music Education Programs

Conducts programs at schools and colleges across India

I teach Indian music in schools through a step-by-step curriculum that connects kids to their culture, adapts to local languages, and supports learning from nursery to masterclasses.

12-50K

per session

A moment of pure connection with my wife, Saskia Rao-de Haas, during a sitar and cello jugalbandi. Our music is a dialogue, a blend of Indian and Western traditions that speaks directly from the soul.

In conversation with the tabla, a key element of my solo Hindustani classical performances. This is the heart of the Maihar Gharana tradition, a deep, meditative experience I love sharing with audiences.

Performing my Guru Pandit Ravi Shankar's Sitar Concerto No. 1 with the Guayaquil Municipal Orchestra in Ecuador. It is an honor to bring the sound of the sitar to a full philharmonic orchestra, bridging worlds through music.

A special Hindustani-Carnatic jugalbandi, uniting the musical traditions of North and South India. This performance with the wonderful veena artist Dr. Suma Sudhindra was a beautiful exploration of shared culture.

I am truly honored to have been invited to join The Recording Academy as a professional member. This recognition from my peers at the Grammys is a humbling and deeply gratifying moment in my journey.

Sitar Performances & Concerts

Performs at venues and events across India

I perform authentic Hindustani classical sitar concerts, solo or with top artists, offering everything from traditional recitals to unique cross-genre collaborations.

1-5L

per concert

Meet your expert

Shubhendra Rao

My Story

Guruji Pt. Ravi Shankar shaped everything for me. Since the 70s, his music, his world, I just tried to step in. Saskia, my wife, plays Indian Cello - together, we make music, raise our son Ishaan, who’s already deep in ragas. Life’s mad – flights, tornadoes, 4am sitar practice with Zizou (my dog, zen master!). But music, family, travel, it’s all joy. Recording with Ishaan at Berklee… that’s pure magic.

My Work

Sitar Performances & Jugalbandi - I play solo, duet (jugalbandi), and collaborate for events big and small. Love improvising, always rooted in Maihar Gharana sitar.

Sitar and Indian Cello Symphony - Me and Saskia create a unique Sitar-Cello blend. Audiences from Delhi to Dallas dig it.

Music Education & Sangeet4All - We run Sangeet4All, bringing playful raga-based music education to kids. I also perform for schools via SPIC MACAY.

Composer & Collaborator - I compose, rework traditions, mix Spanish tunes with Indian ragas. Always exploring, always learning.

Connecting with Audiences - Best part? The energy. Standing ovations, clapping in Alaap - I live for that joyous exchange.

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Shubhendra Rao