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Inspiring Young Minds: Classical Sitar Outreach Concerts

byShubhendra RaoTravels for performances across IndiaStarts from2,75,000 per performance (60-90 mins)View full gallery

I believe Indian classical music belongs to everyone. For decades, I have had the joy of performing at schools and universities across India, bringing the meditative power of the sitar directly to the next generation.

So happy to be performing at a school in my hometown of Bengaluru for SPIC MACAY. These outreach programs are essential for connecting with young music lovers.

A poster for my performance at the Management Development Institute in Gurgaon. It is important to bring classical music to students from all fields.

Glad to be going on stage again for a SPIC MACAY classical series concert at a school in Greater Kailash.

A poster for my sitar recital at Maulana Azad Medical College. SPIC MACAY does wonderful work bringing arts to educational institutions.

Starting a short tour for SPIC MACAY in Saharanpur, with a performance at a school for visually impaired girls. Music transcends all barriers.

The second concert of my SPIC MACAY tour, this time at Quantum University in Roorkee.

On my way to perform at the Navy Children School in Delhi. It is so important to reach out to young minds, and SPIC MACAY has been doing this for decades.

A poster for my performance at the Maha Kumbh Mela, presented by SPIC MACAY and HCL. Even after a 17-hour road trip, the energy of the event is invigorating.

A poster for my performance at Acharya Narendra Dev College in Delhi. I am always glad to perform for SPIC MACAY.

Honored to perform the inaugural "Sangeet Sudha" concert, a public outreach initiative by SPIC MACAY at the Humayun’s Tomb World Heritage Site.

About Inspiring Young Minds: Outreach Concerts

When I bring my sitar to your campus, I keep the logistics straightforward so we can focus entirely on the music. Whether it is an intimate lecture-demonstration for a small group or a full auditorium recital, I prioritize acoustic clarity and student interaction. My goal is to break down the barriers around classical music, so I always make time to answer questions and explain the raga we are exploring, making the experience accessible and engaging for students of all ages.

A Journey Into Classical Music

Bringing Indian classical music to educational institutions is one of the most rewarding parts of my life. My outreach concerts are designed specifically for academic environments—from premier institutions like IITs and IIMs to schools in smaller towns. I have seen students who thought classical music was too slow leave the hall completely transformed, simply because they finally understood the emotional landscape of a raga.

The Lecture-Demonstration Format

I often perform Lecture-Demonstrations (Lec-Dems) because they act as a bridge. These are not just performances; they are guided journeys. I explain the history of the Maihar Gharana, the nuances of the raga, and the conversation between my sitar and the tabla. Students do not just listen; they learn to listen. This format turns a concert into a conversation, which is why it works so well in universities and colleges.

Practical Logistics for Campuses

I understand the constraints of a school auditorium or a college seminar hall. My team and I are experienced in working within limited setups while ensuring the sound remains pristine. We coordinate closely with your local sound engineer to ensure the acoustic balance is perfect, allowing the delicate tones of the sitar to reach the back of the room without distortion. If you are a cultural coordinator or a student body organizer, I would love to bring this experience to your campus. Let’s create a space where the next generation can connect with the profound beauty of our musical heritage.

Performing classical music outreach for 40 years.Approved by the tribe
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Shubhendra Rao

Travels for performances across IndiaStarts from 2,75,000 per performance (60-90 mins)

My name is Shubhendra Rao, and my sitar has been my voice since I began my training under Pt. Ravi Shankar. I live for the energy of live performance, whether on a grand stage or in a quiet school hall, sharing the joy of Hindustani classical music with anyone ready to listen.

Find the perfect musical experience for your event

Explore my different performance formats and collaborative ensembles.