Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Indian classical music at St Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square, with a lunchtime concert featuring the evocative sounds of the sarod and tabla. This enchanting performance by the talented Ameen Ali on sarod, accompanied by Himmet Bahra on tabla, will transport audiences into the deeply expressive and meditative realms of Indian classical tradition.
The sarod, known for its haunting, soulful timbre, invites listeners to experience the full emotional breadth of Indian classical music. Ameen Ali, a distinguished sarod artist, brings both technical brilliance and heartfelt expression to his playing, weaving intricate ragas with rich textures and gentle, flowing melodies. With years of training under some of India’s most esteemed musicians, Ameen’s performances have earned him acclaim for their subtlety and depth, connecting each listener to the music’s spiritual essence.
Himmet Bahra’s mastery on the tabla adds a rhythmic vibrancy that pulses throughout the recital. Known for his precision, creativity, and sensitivity, Himmet has studied under Harkirat Rayatt and other gained knowledge from other tabla master’s and is celebrated for his ability to both anchor and elevate the sarod’s melody with complex rhythms. His dynamic playing ranges from delicate accompaniment to rapid-fire rhythms, adding layers of excitement and energy.
This performance promises an unforgettable journey through Indian classical music, blending meditative calm with exhilarating intensity. Don’t miss this unique chance to witness two brilliant artists bringing this ancient tradition to life in the intimate, resonant setting of St Martin-in-the-Fields.
Explore all our live and on-demand music courses guided by world-class maestros. From beginners taking their first steps to advanced students refining their craft, our globally accessible platform empowers you to learn, grow, and connect deeply with the tradition of Indian classical music
Recorded at Darbar Festival 2015, at the Southbank Centre, London. Musician: - Abhisek Lahiri (sarod) Raag Bhimpalasi; Thaat: Kafi; Samay: Afternoon Strumming up a melodious alap on Raag Bhimpalasi, sarod player Abhisek Lahiri talks to Darbar about his childhood, his musical values and why he does cross-over work. He is a gharana-blending musician who fuses the three major traditions of sarod -the Rampur Shahjahanpur, the Maihar, and the Senia Bangash gharanas. Lahiri was born in a household surrounded by music. Early training began under his father Pandit Alok Lahiri, also an eminent musician based in Kolkata, India. Lahiri was handed a baby sarod at the age of five after which, he started playing the instrument. Lahiri belongs to a family rooted in traditions and yet maintains a liberal outlook towards music. He believes ‘gharana’ is an identity and emulating other styles, a step towards quality musicianship.This interview is a revelation of all the other talents that this young musician possesses and yet remains rooted to traditions as a manner of fulfilling his responsibilities towards the art form.Interspersed with a stunning alap, jor and jhalla, this short and sweet tete-a-tete offers an insight into what shapes Lahiri’s mind and choices as a musician.