Classical Indian / Jazz Fusion Concert

Prasanna (guitars / vocals): Recognized internationally as the only top level performer of Indian classical carnatic music on the guitar, Prasanna's jazz / fusion / multifarious music credentials as composer / guitarist include leading the trio Quantum (which features bassist Alphonso Johnson and drummer Airto Moreira), performances and recordings with Larry Coryell, Aka Moon, A R Rahman, Hari Prasad Chaurasia, Illayaraja, Kenwood Dennard, Jamey Haddad, and others. As a composer of western classical music, Prasanna's large scale chamber work Sanaatana received its world premiere at Queen Elizabeth Hall in London last year. Following his 10 CDs of Indian classical music, Prasanna's latest and eclectic solo CD Peaceful, has received explosive reviews from the international press. Another recent CD Guitars with the great Belgian band Aka Moon (along with David Gilmore and Pierre Van Dormael) was released in Europe in 2002. More information about Prasanna can be found at his website: http://www.guitarprasanna.com.

David Gilmore (guitars): Having recorded over 40 albums with the most highly influential and innovative artists in modern music including the Grammy-winning Wayne Shorter record High Life, David Gilmore is a major force in the guitar world today. An alumni of celebrated bands like Steve Coleman's Five Elements, The Lost Tribe, and Trilok Gurtu's Crazy Saints, David has also performed with an illustrious list of musicians including Wayne Shorter, Cassandra Wilson, David Sanborn, Aka Moon, Victor Bailey, Randy Brecker, and many others. As leader of the David Gilmore Quartet (also includes Brad Jones and Rodney Holmes), David's latest CD Ritualism has received rave reviews from all over the world, demonstrating his commitment to pushing the boundaries of improvising music both as a composer and guitarist. More information about David is available on his website: http://www.dgilmore.com.

Brad Jones (bass): Brad Jones is a formidable force in both the acoustic and electric bass worlds today, having recorded and performed with some of jazz's greatest visionaries like Ornette Coleman and Elvin Jones. Brad regularly performs with the innovative Dave Douglas and is a long standing member of the Jazz Passengers. Brad has also worked extensively with Muhal Richard Abrams, Carlos Garnett, Marc Ribot, David Gilmore, and many other acclaimed artists. As leader of his band Aka Alias, Brad's new CD Uncivilized Poise is a 'highly ingenious and compelling record', to quote the British editorial Straight No Chaser.

Rodney Holmes (drums): Multiple Grammy winner with Santana's multi-platinum selling Supernatural, Rodney Holmes is a rare blend of lightning limbs, artistic vision and extraordinary musicianship. Recognized as one of the premier drummers in the world today, Rodney's work in the last few years have been staggeringly diverse with the giants in jazz and rock including Wayne Shorter, Santana, Brecker Brothers, Zawinul Syndicate, Larry Coryell, Victor Bailey, etc. Apart from his own solo projects which include a much awaited record in the making, Rodney tours regularly with the Steve Kimock Band and David Gilmore Quartet, amongst other acts. Further information is available on Rodney's website: http://www.rodneyholmes.com.

Shalini (guest vocals): A versatile singer with a singing palette that includes carnatic music, rock, jazz, and classical western music, Shalini has sung with various bands in India and has performed with husband Prasanna in India, the US, and Belgium. She is a regular member of Prasanna's band Yantra and is working with him on his new electronic album. She also works a Senior Business Consultant for Liberty Mutual in Boston.

Co-sponsored with the Music, Near Eastern Studies, History, and Anthropology Departments, the Einaudi Centre, the South-Asia Programme, the Cornell Concert Commission, the International Living Centre, the Dean of Students Office, and Community Development. Funded in part by the Student Assembly. (Click here to view the flier for the concert.)

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