Meditative Sitar Concert with Arjun Verma
with Arjun Verma
April 19, 2023
Internationally performing sitarist Arjun Verma will offer a concert of meditative sitar music in the North Indian classical tradition, which has its roots in the introspective and meditative traditions of India. Though it has evolved into a modern genre of virtuosic art music as well, certain repertoire still retains its original contemplative, emotional, and spiritual qualities. Traditionally, this music is believed to “tune up” the human being and restore a natural state of peace and harmony, through the careful and precise usage of certain sounds.
Arjun Verma is an internationally performing sitarist trained by the legendary Maestro Ali Akbar Khan. Arjun has spent his entire life steeped in the tradition of North Indian classical music. Son of sitarist Roop Verma and a disciple of Maestros Ali Akbar Khan and Ravi Shankar, Arjun began learning sitar from his father at age five. As a teenager, Arjun was fortunate to study directly with Maestro Ali Akbar Khan for eight years, and since the Maestro’s death, with his son Alam Khan.
Arjun has performed in the United States, Europe, and India, including noteworthy performances with the St. Louis Symphony and Houston Grand Opera, and performances at Prague Castle, the Fillmore, and the United Nations in Geneva.
Doors open at 7pm.
Testimonials
Exemplary. — St Louis Post-Dispatch
Arjun Verma masterfully carried out the essence of Indian classical music with his craftsmanship in sitar. — The Daily Star, Dhaka
The future is bright for this torchbearer of the rich musical tradition of the maestro Ali Akbar Khan. — Sruti Magazine
Hypnotic. . . such a rich tone that one could easily confuse the music with a human voice. — Sonoma State Star
Presenter
Arjun K. Verma is an Indian-American sitarist and composer. Beginning with his father, Roop Verma, and continuing with the legendary Ali Akbar Khan and his son Alam Khan, Arjun’s meticulous training has imbued him with a rich musicality that encompasses both the profound majesty and the exhilaration of North Indian classical music. Hailed by the New York Times as a “fine sitarist,” Arjun shares the jewels of his cultural heritage in a manner that is fresh, modern, and relevant, while maintaining a high standard of traditional integrity. Arjun has performed at international venues including the United Nations, the Fillmore, Prague…
Learn more about Arjun Verma