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Studio Recording at the Chicago Recording Company in May of 2023.
Live recording of the World Premiere on January 19, 2024.
Still imagery from the World Premiere of Nightfall Rhapsody (aka Rhapsody in राग जोग), January 19, 2024 with the University of Northern Colorado Spectrum Studio Orchestra under the direction of composer/conductor Drew Zaremba. Featuring Kathak artist Sarah Morelli and Tabla master Nabin Shrestha.
Nightfall Rhapsody: A Cultural Tapestry of Sound and Storytelling
Concerto for Bansuri Flute, Saxophone, Tabla, Guitar, Bass, Kathak Dancer, and Orchestra
Why the Change?
Previously titled Rhapsody in राग जोग (Raag Jog), the piece has been reimagined as Nightfall Rhapsody to better connect with audiences. The new title reflects the evening mood of Raag Jog, offering universal imagery of nightfall that resonates across cultures. This change was made to ensure the work’s accessibility to both single-ticket buyers and subscribers, addressing feedback from orchestra administrators who found the original title challenging to communicate.
About the Piece
Nightfall Rhapsody is a groundbreaking fusion that bridges Eastern and Western musical traditions, now further enriched by the addition of Kathak dance, one of India’s most expressive and rhythmic storytelling forms. This unique, 22-minute concerto, written by Drew Zaremba for musician Anjan Shah, weaves together the voices of bansuri flute, saxophone, tabla, guitar, bass, and orchestral strings. The result is a journey that celebrates cultural heritage, emotional depth, and artistic diversity.
Rooted in the late evening Raag Jog, Nightfall Rhapsody seamlessly melds Western improvisation with Eastern musical structures. Kathak’s dynamic rhythms enhance the storytelling, deepening its emotional appeal and connecting audiences to Indian cultural traditions. Every note and movement in this piece speaks the universal language of emotion and identity.
A Personal Journey
For Anjan Shah, Nightfall Rhapsody is deeply personal. As a first-generation American, it reflects his journey of belonging and honoring his Indian roots. The piece is a tribute to his father, Girish Shah, whose dream of becoming a classical dancer was unfulfilled. This heartfelt homage combines traditional Hindustani forms—Alap, Peshkar, Sawal Jawab—with the episodic flow of a Western rhapsody, embodying the dreams, sacrifices, and cultural intersections that shape identity.
“Through this project, I hope to inspire reflection on the connections between heritage and innovation,” Anjan shares. “This rhapsody is a celebration of traditions that transcend generations.”
A Transformative Experience
Nightfall Rhapsody invites audiences to explore the rich synergy of music and dance, creating a performance that bridges diverse worlds and sparks meaningful conversations. This work not only honors Anjan’s legacy but also introduces Indian cultural traditions to symphonic audiences, opening new pathways for connection and understanding.
Through its powerful fusion of sound and movement, Nightfall Rhapsody stands as a pioneering composition—a shared story of heritage, innovation, and universal connection.
Click on the image above to learn more about the story behind this ground-breaking new composition.
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
Speak to someone about Rhapsody in राग जोग (Raag Jog). Simply fill out the form below and you be contacted within 12 hours.
IDEAS ON PROGRAMMING:
Recently, there has been a growing interest in Nightfall Rhapsody (aka Rhapsody in राग जोग). Many artistic administrators and music directors we've engaged with are passionate about the evolving landscape of classical music. They recognize the unique blend of traditions, innovations, and a multitude of voices within this piece.
Yet, a common concern arises regarding the best approach to incorporate this composition into a classical subscription program. After numerous conversations with these professionals, we have brainstormed some potential ideas for programming "Rhapsody in राग जोग (Raag Jog)":
ECHOING GERSHWIN'S LEGACY:
In 1924, George Gershwin merged jazz and classical in "Rhapsody in Blue". Now, in 2024, "Nightfall Rhapsody" offers a similar groundbreaking fusion opportunity.
Gershwin/Stone: 3 Preludes
Zaremba: Nightfall Rhapsody 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: Nightfall Rhapsody 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: Nightfall Rhapsody feat: Anjan Shah
INTERMISSION
Fairouz: Symphony No. 4 "In the Shadow of No Towers"
This project is supported in part by the Maryland State Arts Council www.msac.org.
