Harmonies of Heritage: Armenian and Indian Music Workshop

Harmonies of Heritage: Armenian and Indian Music Workshop with Tamar Eskenian and Tommy Khosla

Discover the Rich Tapestry of Armenian and Indian Music with Tamar Eskenian and Tommy Khosla

Join us at SOAS for an immersive workshop and lecture that bridges the rich musical traditions of Armenia and India. This unique event is led by acclaimed flutist and ethnomusicologist, Tamar Eskenian, and renowned sitarist and composer, Tommy Khosla. Together, they will explore the cultural significance and intricate sounds of Armenian and Indian classical music.

This event precedes a concert by Tamar and Tommy with their collective JAWARI, scheduled for the following day. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the sounds and stories of Armenian and Indian music!

Event Highlights:

Lecture and Workshop with Tamar Eskenian: Experience the depth of Armenian musical heritage through a brief lecture inspired by the work of renowned ethnomusicologist Komitas. Tamar will introduce the different categories of Armenian music, including liturgical and secular traditions, and showcase traditional instruments such as the Shvi (Armenian Shepherd's Flute), Duduk, Blul, and Pku. Attendees will learn about the Armenian notation system and discover key composers who have shaped this rich musical tradition.

Interactive Singing Session: Participate in a workshop where Tamar will sing and teach secular and folkloric Armenian songs, providing a hands-on understanding of this beautiful music.

Indian Classical Music with Tommy Khosla: Tommy Khosla will lead a section dedicated to Indian Classical music, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience. Tommy, a student of Anoushka Shankar and Ricky Romain, will introduce the fundamentals of Indian Classical music, demonstrate traditional instruments like the sitar, and discuss its rhythmic and melodic structures. This session will offer participants a comparative look at how Armenian and Indian musical traditions can intersect and complement each other.

About Tamar Eskenian: Tamar Eskenian is a distinguished flutist celebrated for her mastery of both Western and Eastern classical music. Her repertoire ranges from early baroque to contemporary pieces, with a special focus on traditional Armenian music. Tamar's illustrious career includes performances with the “West-Eastern Divan” Orchestra under Daniel Barenboim, concerts at world-renowned venues, and a debut at Carnegie Hall. Her dedication to Armenian music is evident through her research, lectures, and performances.

About Tommy Khosla: Tommy Khosla is an innovative sitarist and composer whose work spans multiple genres including Latin jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music. Currently studying under Anoushka Shankar and Ricky Romain, Tommy has performed with prestigious orchestras and at notable venues. He leads JAWARI, a multi-disciplinary collective fusing Indian Classical tradition with global jazz influences. Tommy's section on Indian Classical music will provide deep insights into its complex structures and offer a comparative understanding alongside Armenian music.