anjan shah

Studio Recording at the Chicago Recording Company in May of 2023.

Live recording of the World Premiere on January 19, 2024.

Rhapsody in राग जोग (Raag Jog) is an innovative and evocative fusion that bridges the rich traditions of Eastern and Western music, now further enriched by the addition of Kathak dance to its presentation. This unique combination not only showcases the musical journey but also incorporates the expressive storytelling and rhythmic sophistication of one of India's most revered dance forms. Composed for bansuri flute, tenor saxophone, tabla, guitar, bass, and orchestral strings, this 22-minute original work by Drew Zaremba, written for Anjan Shah, is a rhapsodic exploration of sound that invites listeners into a world where music and movement speak the universal language of emotion and heritage.

The composition, rooted in the late evening Raag Jog, embodies a seamless blend of improvisation, a synthesis of Western and Eastern musical sensibilities, and a celebration of diversity and inclusion. It tells a story of cultural acceptance and personal identity, reflecting Anjan's journey as a first-generation American navigating the complexities of belonging and his deep connection to his Indian ancestry. This narrative is further enriched by the inclusion of Kathak dance, symbolizing the historical linkage between music and dance in the Hindustani performance tradition and emphasizing the role of art in conveying emotion and stories.

Rhapsody in राग जोग is a tribute to the dreams and aspirations within us all, inspired by Anjan's father, Girish Shah, whose own childhood dream of becoming a classical dancer was unfulfilled due to the expectations of his era, leading him to a career in civil engineering. This work honors his spirit and those of many others who have had to navigate the balance between duty and passion.

Structured around the traditional sections of classical Hindustani music — Alap, Peshkar, Paran, Panjabi, Sawal Jawab — the composition melds these elements with the free-flowing, episodic nature of a Western rhapsody. This creates a compelling tapestry of moods, colors, and tonalities, making the piece a vivid portrayal of Anjan's own cultural reconciliation and a celebration of his dual heritage.

The introduction of Dr. Sarah Morelli, an accomplished Kathak dancer and Ethnomusicologist, as part of the performance, brings an additional layer of authenticity and depth to the experience. Her involvement not only highlights the synergy between the music and dance but also serves as a bridge, connecting audiences to the rich artistic expressions of India. With over 25 years of study in India, Dr. Morelli embodies the art form with grace and expertise, enhancing the narrative woven through the rhapsody and inviting audiences into the heart of Indian cultural expression.

"I have been so fortunate to benefit from so many rich and diverse musical experiences," states soloist Anjan Shah. "This fusion of Indian sounds and melodies with jazz, now complemented by Kathak dance, is designed to inspire reflection on the influences shaping our appreciation for music and motivate exploration of new expressions. This endeavor, at its core, is a heartfelt homage to my father, Girish Shah, and a celebration of the cherished traditions and potential for cultural fusion that music and dance represent."

Rhapsody in राग जोग (Raag Jog), with its innovative integration of music and dance, stands as a pioneering work that not only pays homage to Anjan's personal and cultural legacy but also aims to make symphonic music more accessible to Indian audiences and to enlighten classical audiences about the depths of Indian culture beyond its cuisine. This performance is a testament to the power of artistic fusion to create new pathways of understanding and appreciation across diverse cultures.

INSTRUMENTATION:

• Tenor Sax / Bansuri flute (Anjan)

• Electric Guitar

• Acoustic Bass

• Tabla (Nabin)

• Violin I

• Violin II

• Violin III

• Viola

• Cello I

• Cello II

• Double Bass

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ECHOING GERSHWIN'S LEGACY: 

In 1924, George Gershwin merged jazz and classical in "Rhapsody in Blue". Now, in 2024, "Rhapsody in राग जोग (Raag Jog)" offers a similar groundbreaking fusion opportunity.

• Gershwin/Stone: 3 Preludes

• Zaremba: Rhapsody in राग जोग feat: Anjan Shah

• INTERMISSION

• Béla Bartók: Concerto for Orchestra

MUSIC OF A THOUSAND AND ONE NIGHTS: 

Dive into a realm of allure and seduction. Embark on a magnificently layered journey of sound, weaving intricate melodies and captivating tales, all culminating in one unforgettable, mesmerizing evening.

• Strauss: Dance of the Seven Veils

• Zaremba: Rhapsody in राग जोग feat: Anjan Shah

• INTERMISSION

• Rimsky-Korsakov: Scheherazade

BRIDGING CULTURES: 

Connecting with communities through music, we create a symbiosis of voice and relevance. Classical music becomes a melting pot, bridging cultures and resonating with diverse audiences.

• Esmail: avartan

• Zaremba: Rhapsody in राग जोग feat: Anjan Shah

• INTERMISSION

• Fairouz: Symphony No. 4 "In the Shadow of No Towers"