Sitar Performances & Concerts
Available across Israel
I perform authentic Hindustani classical sitar concerts, solo or with top artists, offering everything from traditional recitals to unique cross-genre collaborations.
Pricing Guide
Classical Solo Sitar Recital
Core Performance
- Artist: Pandit Shubhendra Rao (Solo Sitar).
- Accompaniment: One A-Grade Tabla Maestro (high broadcast standard).
- Format: Pure Hindustani Classical Ragas including Alap, Jod, Jhala, and Gat compositions.
- Duration: 60 to 90 minutes.
- Note: Strictly classical repertoire; no Bollywood or request songs. Raga selected based on time of day (Prahar).
The Experience
- Narration: Includes anecdotes about Bharat Ratna Pt. Ravi Shankar and Maihar Gharana history.
- Ambience: Designed for serious listening and spiritual introspection.
Technical & Logistics
- Sound Engineer: Includes dedicated engineer for acoustic balance.
- Sound Check: Mandatory 60-minute check required before guest arrival.
- Travel: Includes premium local transport for artist and accompanist.
East-West Sitar & Cello Duet
Artist Lineup
- Lead Artists: Pandit Shubhendra Rao (Sitar) and Maestro Saskia Rao-de Haas (Indian Cello).
- Percussion: One Senior Tabla Artist to bridge rhythmic structures.
Performance Details
- Style: Jugalbandi (Duet) format featuring a musical conversation between instruments.
- Genre: Blend of classical ragas adapted for duet and specific East-West fusion compositions.
- Duration: 75 to 90 minutes.
- Context: Includes introductions to the Indian Cello and the history of the musical partnership.
Technical Specs
- Audio: Dedicated sound engineer provided to balance cello (bass/mid) and sitar (treble) frequencies.
- Stage: Requires specific seating arrangement for Cello ergonomics alongside Sitar.
- Setup: Mandatory 90-minute technical setup and sound check.
The Rao Trio Ensemble
The Ensemble
- Artists: Pt. Shubhendra Rao (Sitar), Maestro Saskia Rao-de Haas (Indian Cello), Ishaan Leonard Rao (Piano/Keyboards).
- Percussion: Senior Tabla Accompaniment.
Musical Experience
- Style: Grand fusion of Hindustani Classical, Western Classical, and Jazz influences.
- Format: Mix of solos, duets, and full trio crescendos.
- Duration: 90 minutes.
Venue Requirements
- Piano: Client/Venue must provide a tuned Acoustic Grand/Baby Grand Piano. Alternatively, artist can use high-end Digital Stage Piano connected to PA.
- Stage: Minimum 24ft width required to accommodate Piano, Sitar riser, Cello, and Tabla.
Production
- Sound: Full band mix required with dedicated mixing engineer included.
About Sitar Performances & Concerts
What Music Means to Me
Music isn't just notes and rhythms for me - it's like breathing. My journey started in my teens under Pandit Ravi Shankar, a true legend. His teaching shaped not just my playing, but my whole life. When I pick up my sitar, sometimes there's so much emotion, I can't hold back the tears. It feels like something bigger than me is playing through me. That joy is something I want to share with you.
My Kinds of Sitar Experiences
- Deep, meditative solo recitals, rooted in the Maihar Gharana, with a fantastic tabla artist alongside. This is a real Hindustani classical sitar show, not just background music.
- Sitar and cello jugalbandi with my wife, Saskia. Our music is like two souls talking - sometimes playful, sometimes just pure silence between notes.
- Fusion sitar performance and collaborations are my way of exploring. I've played with jazz musicians, Spanish composers, Carnatic and Chinese artists, and even symphony orchestras.
- When our family - me, Saskia, and our son Ishaan on piano - play as the Rao Trio, something different happens. The sounds mix in a way that's just... home.
Who I Play With & Where
Music is never just me and my sitar. The tabla, the cello, the piano, and all the friends I get to play with, they make every concert alive. From fancy stages like NMACC to school halls through SPIC MACAY, I love playing for everyone, especially young people. Classical music is for all, bas thoda dil se suno (just listen with your heart).
Meet your Expert
Shubhendra Rao
27 connects in last 3 months
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.