International Carnatic Concerts and Global Music Tours
Bringing the depth of Carnatic tradition to global stages is my way of connecting cultures. Whether it is a classical kutcheri in the USA or a cultural festival in Australia, I focus on creating a space where the music feels both authentic and accessible to everyone in the audience.
Performing at the "Margazhi in Dubai" event. It was a grand stage with a massive screen, and a wonderful experience to bring the spirit of the Chennai music season to the UAE.
A collage from my performance at the prestigious Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival in the USA. This festival is one of the largest celebrations of Carnatic music outside of India, and it was an honor to be a part of it.
A memorable concert in Australia with a fantastic team of senior artists. Returning to perform in Sydney and Melbourne as a Carnatic vocalist, years after touring there as a child artist, was a very special feeling.
An impromptu duet of a Charukesi varnam with Sooryagayathri, with the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background. We love to find moments to sing wherever we are in the world.
A fun soundcheck video from the Gems Modern Academy in Dubai. Here I am with my co-artists, getting ready for our concert and giving a sneak peek of the beautiful auditorium.
A photo with my co-artists after a successful performance at the Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival 2023. It was a great learning experience to also sing for a dance recital and lead the Carnatic Symphony there.
On stage during the Carnatic Symphony I had the opportunity to lead at the Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival. Collaborating with so many musicians on a grand symphony was a thrilling experience.
A happy moment on stage during my concert tour in Australia. Performing for international audiences and connecting with them through music is always a heartwarming experience.
A beautiful stage setup for a concert by Geethaanjalie School of Carnatic Music in Melbourne, Australia. The vibrant backdrop added to the festive atmosphere of the performance.
A memorable birthday celebration on stage during my first concert of the USA tour in Chicago. The audience and fellow musicians made it a very special day.
About On The World Stage
When I travel for international concerts, my priority is maintaining the sonic integrity of a traditional kutcheri, regardless of the venue. I work closely with local organizers on the tech rider and sound check well in advance to ensure the violin, mridangam, and my vocals are balanced correctly for the space, whether it is a grand concert hall in Chicago or a cultural festival in Dubai.
Performing on the world stage comes with a unique set of logistical challenges and joys. My international tours, which have taken me across the USA, Australia, and the Middle East, rely on clear coordination between my ensemble and local hosts.
For these shows, we usually adapt our setup. A full Carnatic ensemble requires specific acoustic considerations. Unlike a local venue where my team knows the sound requirements, international venues often require a thorough pre-event walkthrough. We prioritize high-quality sound engineering to ensure that the delicate nuances of the mridangam and the violin are not lost in large auditoriums.
My approach to these global concerts is to bridge the gap between tradition and the local audience. While the core repertoire remains strictly classical—compositions by the Trinity, extensive Manodharma—I often frame these performances to include storytelling or thematic introductions. This context helps non-regular rasikas connect with the music.
If you are an organizer planning a cultural event or a festival, the best time to reach out is 4 to 6 months in advance. This lead time allows us to secure travel for the ensemble and coordinate the technical needs. Whether it is a concert for the Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival or a private community event, the goal is always to keep the experience intimate, soulful, and deeply grounded in the Carnatic tradition.
Spoorthi Rao
I am Spoorthi. It has been a wild journey from singing on stage as a child to touring the world today as a Carnatic vocalist. I love sharing this music with diverse audiences—it is not just about the performance, but the connection we build in the room.
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Explore different concert formats, from intimate devotional sessions to grand classical performances.
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