Sudhir to sing at Freeport

As leader of the reputable Shiv Sangeet School of Music (SSSM) of Mohess Road in Penal, Shivanand will perform several classical pieces with his students. However, people can expect to listen to many of the top ghazal (classical love songs) by Sudhir at this event.

This concert entitled, ‘‘Suhana Safar 11’’ (a musical journey) will also feature the talent of the India-trained Shakuntala Jang-bahadoor.

Maharaj said that over 50 students who are studying tabla music will be doing a special presentation.

Among the renowned tabla players scheduled to perform are Sudesh Sooknarine, Taradath Sawh and Narine Mahadeo.

Sudhir who is an accomplished ghazal and bhajan singer from Agra, India, was trained by the late Ustad Shabbir Ahmed Khan. He has entertained audiences all over India and appears in various art and music festivals in that country such as Taj Mahotsav in Agra, Jhansi Mahotsav, Ramayan Mela in Ayodhya, Kumbh mela in Allahabad and Haridwar.

Sudhir has performed in over 800 concerts worldwide in the last 17 years including the USA, Canada, UK, Tanzania and Kenya. Some memorable shows have been performances at the Embassy of India in Washington DC, an Independence Day concert in Toronto organised by the Indian High Commission in Canada and shows by the Indo Canadian Cultural Club, fund-raiser concerts by EIPROC Canada, Green Peace Movement concert at the Legislative Assembly building in Winnipeg (Canada) and the Raga Mala Calgary (Canada).

Also known for his excellent music direction and arrangement, he has recorded music scores for ballets based on Indian music which were visualised, directed and staged in Canada. Among such projects are Ashoka, La Bayedere and ‘‘Kathak Dance Festival 2005.”

According to Shivanand, Sudhir’s impeccable command of the Urdu language and masterful delivery is what endears him to his fans. “His rich, deep voice is perfectly suited for the romance and magic of ghazal singing where he emphasises specifically on the sweetness and meaningful combinations of notes,” he said.

His performance leaves an indelible impression on the audience because of his capacity and ability to bring out the soul of the lyric to the forefront through his powerful rendition, Shivanand added. Sudhir’s classical training also reflects vividly in his performances presenting original compositions as well as traditional styles.