A Fresh Concept - NEXT WAVE

Dhwani Academy of Percussion Music, along with the Worah Family Foundation and Irvine Barclay Theatre, present the second event in a brand-new concert series — NEXT WAVE — dedicated to showcasing the talent and passion of emerging musicians. This platform provides upcoming artists with the opportunity to share their unique artistry, connect with a wider audience, and celebrate the vibrant world of music. Join us in supporting these rising stars and experience an unforgettable journey through diverse melodies and rhythms.

HEADLINER
Pandit Ajoy Chakraborty  (Hindustani Vocal)
accompanied by Gourab Chatterjee (Harmonium), Soumen Sarkar (Tabla), Meher Paralikar (Vocals), 5:45 PM-7:15 PM

EMERGING ARTIST
Arun Ramamurthi (Carnatic Violin)
accompanied by Shubha Chandramouli (Mridungam), 5:00 PM-5:30 PM

Pandit Ajoy Chakrabarty, a legendary Indian vocalist, is acclaimed for his mastery of classical, light-classical, and modern vocal music. Born in 1953 in Calcutta, he began training with his father and later with maestros including Ustad Munawar Ali Khan. A Rabindra Bharati University graduate, he has received top honors like the Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri, and Sangeet Natak Akademi Award. Also a composer, lyricist, and music director, he is a revered teacher and senior faculty member at the ITC Sangeet Research Academy, where he continues to shape and inspire the next generation of musicians across India and the world.

Gourab Chatterjee, trained in Hindustani classical music from childhood, studied under eminent Gurus and became a Scholar at ITC Sangeet Research Academy. An acclaimed vocalist and harmonium accompanist, he has performed globally and with renowned maestros. He mentors students at his music school, Philharmony, which also promotes music programs.

Meher Parlikar, a gifted Hindustani classical vocalist, began training at age 8 and is a senior scholar at ITC Sangeet Research Academy. A disciple of Pt. Ajoy Chakrabarty, he has earned numerous national awards and performed widely across India in classical and light music, including thumri and natyasangeet.

Soumen Sarkar is an accomplished tabla player, renowned for his skill, dedication, and depth of experience. He has performed extensively across the U.S. and South Asia, appearing in prestigious concerts and festivals. In addition to performing, he shares his expertise through workshops at schools and universities worldwide.

Arun Ramamurthi, a top Carnatic violinist and disciple of Delhi Shri P. Sunder Rajan, began with Western classical music at age 4. He’s performed with legends, founded Maarga USA to mentor youth, served SIMA LA, and blends tradition with innovation to inspire audiences worldwide.

Shubha Chandramouli, one of the few female mridangam artists worldwide, has trained under Sri Poovalur Srinivasan and Sri Patri Satish Kumar. She has accompanied top musicians, performed globally—including at Reflektor Festival in Germany—and is also a trained Carnatic vocalist. Shubha works as a consultant at Ernst & Young.