As part of New Zealand Music Month, Revathi Performing Arts held their annual showcase, ‘Sangeetham 2023’ on May 21, 2023, at Sumner Community Centre in Christchurch.
The event was a great success and featured talented and upcoming performers from the Indian community, with a particular focus on Carnatic and Hindustani music, along with a lighter contemporary section.
Initiated in 2001, New Zealand Music Month aims to boost the visibility and success of New Zealand music. The month-long celebration supports the industry by creating a platform for local performers to gain wider recognition and success.
Revathi Performing Arts' Sangeetham, a showcase of musical talents within the Indian community, has become a keenly awaited addition to the musical calendar of Christchurch music lovers since its inception in 2021.
It is a renowned school that offers a complete programme for budding artists to learn the Indian classical dance form ‘Bharathanatyam’ and Carnatic Music. Set up by Guru Uma Varma in 2009, the school welcomes students of all ages and from all walks of life.
Sangeetham 2023 had about 70 music enthusiasts gathered to witness the mesmerising line-up of performances across musical traditions. The event commenced with arousing renditions of the national anthems of New Zealand and India, paying homage to the multicultural spirit of the setting.
The event comprised four segments, each showcasing a different style of Indian music. The first segment focused on Carnatic music, a style prominent in South India. It featured six vocal and instrumental performances, demonstrating the learning progression of Carnatic vocal music.
The young talents showcased their skills and passion for music. From the introductory ‘Sapthaswara’ and ‘Sarali Varisai’ in ‘Raagam Mayamalavagowla’ to the intricate ‘Varnam’, the performers delighted the audience with their dedication and talent.
The second segment highlighted Hindusthani music, prevalent in North India. Kanak's spellbinding bandish in ‘Raag Yeman’, accompanied by the rhythmic beats of Justin on tabla, mesmerised the listeners. The instrumental performance in ‘Bhoopali’, featuring Liam on sitar, Nelson on flute and Joshua on tabla, transported the audience to North India.
The third segment took a traditional turn – featuring the vibrant and festive rhythms of the music of Kerala. Vinay showcased the art of ‘Kuzhal Pattu’, a form of music performed during temple festivals, with his masterful skills on the ‘chenda’, a traditional Kerala drum. Uthara accompanied him on the ‘elathalam’, adding a distinct touch of tradition to the performance.
The fourth and final segment of ‘Sangeetham’ embraced contemporary music, including the ever-popular Bollywood music. Anika enthralled the crowd with her flawless performance on the digital piano, while Uthara showcased her versatile vocal skills with Bollywood melodies. Swarit on the piano, Vrishti on guitar, Vishnu on bass guitar and Sanoj on the drums further added to the atmosphere with their compelling performances.
The event was organised in association with Christchurch Council and Ministry of Ethnic Communities and aimed to promote cultural exchange and appreciation.
Varma said, "I am thankful to our audience, our students and their supportive parents, who volunteered their time and efforts in organising this show. The event was successful in celebrating the richness of our music and fostering cultural unity and appreciation from the broader communities."
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