Reading Raga Resonance: Bow, Beat, and Breath

Dear music lovers from Reading, we are proud to announce our return to The Great Hall at Reading University for a second time as part of the annual Kala Festival, to present "Reading Raga Resonance: Bow, Beat, and Breath". Join us on 12 September 2026 at 12:00 PM for an intimate afternoon to witness the mesmerising musical dialogue of the soulful Sarangi and the dynamic rhythms of the Tabla, as they take turns leading the conversation.

This special afternoon features two highly celebrated artists: Satwinder Pal Singh on the Sarangi and Ustad Shahbaz Hussain on the Tabla. Satwinder has been playing the sthe arangi since a very early age. and had his first public performance at 5. He was nurtured by his father, and later learnt from other great living masters such as Ustad Sabri Khan and Pandit Ram Narayan Ji. As for Shahbaz Hussain, who first studied under his father, the vocalist Ustad Mumtaz Hussain, he went on to learn from various gurus: the Delhi gharana’s Ustad Faiyaz Khan and the Punjab gharana’s Ustad Shaukat Hussain Khan and Ustad Allah Rakha. He has developed an eclectic, versatile style, leading the fusion group Indus and accompanying touring classical artists. Shahbaz is active as a tabla teacher across the North of England.

Together, they will present a unique, conversational performance that highlights the deep connection between the rhythm and melody of our ancient musical tradition. Instead of a standard setup, we plan to design it as a true musical exchange, where the bow and the beat hold equal weight and are equal parts.

The performance will unfold in two distinct sessions. The first half will focus on the sweeping, vocal-like melodies of the Sarangi solo, elegantly supported by the Tabla. In the second half, the roles will reverse, and the Tabla takes centre stage for a powerful rhythmic solo, navigated and framed by the Sarangi. This back-and-forth structure promises a captivating display of classical skill, mutual respect, and spontaneous musical discovery.

This evening is more than music; it is also an invitation to pause, reflect, and experience the healing resonance of sound (Shabd). For centuries, Indian classical traditions have regarded music as a form of meditation, a means of restoring balance within ourselves and within our communities. When we gather for intimate concerts with others and participate in musical experiences that carry ancient sound, we open a whole new world to ourselves. In today’s world, these timeless practices remind us of our profound connection between music, mental health, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. This evening offers renewal, a chance to feel uplifted, connected, and restored through the universal language of music.

If you are in Reading or around, do join. For any special needs, contact us.

Doors open at 11:30 AM, with music starting at 12:00

Audience Policy:

• Unauthorised filming or photography is not permitted.
• The use of mobile phones (including texting) is not allowed during the event. We kindly ask for your cooperation. Thank you!