Metro Plus
Bangalore
Chennai
Coimbatore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kochi
Madurai
Mangalore
Puducherry
Tiruchirapalli
Thiruvananthapuram
Vijayawada
Visakhapatnam
Tradition’s torch-bearers
|
The festival is launched with two of Pakistan’s best-known classical musicians, says GOWRI RAMNARAYAN
|
Other Side of Midnight
Ustad Fateh Ali Khan and
Rustam Ali Khan
November 10, 7.15 p.m.,
The Music Academy
The Friday Review November Fest is being launched with a truly unique performance by doyen Ustad Fateh Ali Khan and his son Rustam Ali Khan.
Belonging to the flamboyant Patiala gharana, munificently patronised by the rulers of the Patiala State in undivided Punjab, Fateh Ali Khan became famous as his brother Amanat Ali Khan’s partner in duo recitals throughout the subcontinent. Both had been groomed by father Akhtar Hussain. Recovering from his brother’s death, the ustad continued to perform with his younger brother, nephews, and finally his own son Rustam, but now taking the lead role. Today he remains the last torch-bearer of the pristine tradition of his school.
The comparatively young Patiala gharana developed its distinctive brand of melody and rhythm with acknowledged borrowings from other schools. Its vocalisation is acclaimed for lucidity, its taans for their sparkle and flourish. Among its luminaries Bade Ghulam Ali Khan stands out for his extraordinary voice, dexterity and charisma. Had he not stunned Chennai and had musicians of the stature of G.N. Balasubramanian prostrating before his genius? Shahida Parween, Farida Khanum, Ilyas Hussain Khan and Madras-born Lakshmi Shankar are among the Patiala stars.
Fateh Ali Khan essays the lyrical khyal mode with the strength and vigour of his dhrupad training. There is depth in his approach to the romance of thumri, dadra or ghazal. His interest in Sufi music adds reflective power to his recitals. With this rich heritage, son Rustam has grown into a musician of note.
Opting to emigrate to Pakistan had the family of musicians facing restrictions in the Islamic State, but the ustad kept the flame burning, travelled widely, performed much, and trained students in many nations including Norway. Purist though he is, the Ustad has on occasion collaborated with western musicians. “Ragas and Sagas” records his exchanges with Norwegian saxophonist Jan Garbarek.
Printer friendly
page
Send this article to Friends by
E-Mail
Metro Plus
Bangalore
Chennai
Coimbatore
Delhi
Hyderabad
Kochi
Madurai
Mangalore
Puducherry
Tiruchirapalli
Thiruvananthapuram
Vijayawada
Visakhapatnam
|
