A rare opportunity in Burlington to experience the timeless beauty of Indian classical music and dance.
Connecting Links is a unique community program created by Burlington-based sarod maestro Arnab Chakrabarty, an internationally acclaimed musician with over 30 years of experience. Supported in part by the Burlington Arts and Culture Fund and The Burlington Performing Arts Centre, Connecting Links aims to open a window into the rich and intricate traditions of South Asian classical arts.
The program features an exceptional lineup: Vancouver’s rising star of khayal vocals Akhil Jobanputra, acclaimed kathak dancer Priyanka Topé, renowned tabla artist Zaheer-Abbas Janmohamed, and Chakrabarty himself. Audiences will enjoy two parts: an afternoon masterclass offering insight and context, and an evening of captivating live performances in music and dance.
Part 1: Afternoon Masterclass | 1:00–2:30 PM
This engaging session introduces audiences to the essence of North Indian (Hindustani) classical music and dance. Through live demonstrations, storytelling, and personal reflections, the artists will share how centuries-old musical and rhythmic traditions continue to evolve today. The masterclass invites audiences to discover the deep connections between melody, rhythm, movement, and emotion that define these art forms.
Part 2: Evening Recitals | 5:00–7:30 PM
The evening opens with an exhilarating kathak dance performance by Priyanka Topé, whose expressive storytelling, intricate footwork, and vibrant spins bring this classical dance to life.
Next, Akhil Jobanputra—one of Canada’s most promising young voices in South Asian music—will present evocative raga-based singing in the khayal style, weaving timeless melodies into an improvisational journey.
The final recital features the serene, soulful sound of the sarod, performed by Arnab Chakrabarty, hailed internationally as one of today’s foremost sarod exponents.
All three performances will be accompanied by the dynamic rhythms of Toronto’s own tabla virtuoso, Zaheer-Abbas Janmohamed, whose artistry on this iconic pair of hand drums brings every performance to life.
Discover the profound artistry of India’s living traditions—right here in Burlington.
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