MUMBAI: NCPA’s Band Baja, which is entering its second year, will have the band inStrings on board, featuring internationally acclaimed violinist, Sangeeta Shankar and her daughter’s Ragini and Nandi, who will grace the upcoming event. Band Baja is a youth-centric and unique platform that promotes and recognizes new, innovative talent which transcends the traditional boundaries of music genres and styles.

Sangeeta Shankar, who was caught in an exclusive interview with Radioandmusic, spoke about the event, performance of inStrings and much more.

Speaking about her association with NCPA and Band Baja, Shankar said, “I know the head of NCPA. Last year, I sent information about my band and got an invite from them.”

Further, sharing about their performance the event, she added, “We will be showcasing World music i.e. a fusion of music across all genres in the world. Every song has its own colour. Some songs, rhythm, and raga will be used. This fusion will be one of its kind.”

Besides, Shankar spoke about her band, inStrings that aim to create music for people of every age.

Speaking about inStrings and the idea behind it, Shankar said, “I was born in a traditional family and have learned classical music for many years of my life owing to my mother N Rajan and uncle TN Krishnan. We, classical musicians, enjoy our music, but it is restricted to ones who enjoy. Hence, we thought of connecting to masses that are not associated with classical music. This is how inStrings happened. We want to create something that every person can enjoy for all ages, both young and old.

Shankar’s daughters Raghini and Nandini further added about inStrings, “inStrings is a beautifully thought of the concept, a boutique of different genres that combines best elements, thus bringing out improvisation of creativity.”

“We didn’t want to follow the crowd but wanted to take the really nice music of different genres and let the audience enjoy it. We give grand sound to popular tunes,” Shankar signed off,

Sangeeta Shankar is currently engaged in imparting voice culture and music training at Whistling Woods International Film Institute. Along with this, she is also working on an educational project, Milaap, aimed at inculcating values, culture and peace amongst humanity in children.

inStrings artists performing at Band Baja:

Sangeeta Shankar (Violinist)

Nandini Shankar (Violinist)

Ragini Shankar (Violinist)

Shyam Edwankar (Meinlcymabls)

Ajeet Pathak (Tabla, Pakhawaj and Dholak)

Shankar Lakshmanan (Ghatam & Mridangam)

Vaibhav Wavikar (Drums)

Shahnawaz Ahmed Khan (Guitar and Bass)

Chitty Pillai (Keyboard and Accordion)