Ravi and Anoushka Shankar
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall
Friday, 7:30 p.m.
503-228-1353
800-228-7343
Every country has its great artists, but few can claim a bona fide international superstar.
Friday, at 7:30 p.m., legendary Indian musician and composer Ravi Shankar will perform at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. This is Shankar’s farewell tour, and should prove a moving experience.
Shankar single-handedly brought the sound of Asia to the West in the ’60s when he stirred crowds with enlightening performances at the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Shankar’s sitar playing is akin to transcendental meditation – that other Indian export so embraced by the West – it transports the listener to different place and evokes a sense of well-being and calm.
Shankar’s long career has been hailed by everyone, from George Harrison to one-time student Philip Glass. He has recorded over 60 albums, won two Grammies, been awarded the highest civilian honor bestowed by both the Indian and French governments, been named “Honorary Knight Commander of the Excellent Order of the British Empire,” and has received 14 honorary doctorate degrees.
Once again, this is Shankar’s final tour, the last chance for music lovers to say goodbye and thank-you to one of the greatest artists the world has known.
But the music will not stop with Mr. Shankar – his 20-year-old daughter Anoushka, a virtuoso in her own right, will be performing with him. Ms. Shankar is widely recognized as a student and player fit to carry on the legacy.
“If Ravi Shankar is the guru of Indian classical music,” stated Dubai’s What’s On magazine, “Anouska is certainly the successor to his throne, by virtue of ability alone.”
Ms. Shankar has quickly won the embrace of her father’s admirers. Having performed in public since the age of 13, she is now turning in to be a well-heeled composer herself.
Every country has is legends, and India has shared its finest with the world, so come out and pay tribute to a legend and listen as the mantel is passed.
Ravi and Anoushka Shankar perform at the Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall Friday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25-87.50. Call 503-228-1353 or 800-228-7343 for tickets and more information.