The masters of North Indian and Carnatic traditions are joined by Pinky Singh, Parupalli Phalgun and Giuliano Modarelli.
A thrilling double-bill for Bristol this spring, as the two masters of North Indian and Carnatic traditions, on flute and sarod, are joined by Sukhvinder ‘Pinky’ Singh on tabla, Parupalli Phalgun on mridangam, and guitarist Giuliano Modarelli.
Shashank Subramanyam is a world-renowned Carnatic flautist celebrated for his mastery of Indian classical music. With tones that shimmer with emotion and depth, Shashank transforms the humble bamboo flute—the most ancient and organic of instruments—into a voice that sings to the soul.
His breathtaking virtuosity, born of innate genius and honed through rigorous training from a young age, has redefined the possibilities of the flute. Through his innovative playing techniques, effortless precision, and extraordinary breath control, Shashank has elevated the bamboo flute to new heights, captivating audiences across the globe.
Shashank has not only led many ensembles but has also made guest appearances with renowned bands including John McLaughlin’s ‘Remember Shakti’, for which he received a GRAMMY nomination, and performed with artists including Paco De Lucia, the late tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, and Ajoy Chakraborthy to name a few.
“You rarely hear music as thrilling as this; Shashank Subramanyam’s performance sounded like a celebration of life.” (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Evening Standard)
Shashank will be joined by Parupalli S. Phalgun on mridangam. Widely acclaimed for his dexterity, tonal clarity, and refined fingering techniques, Phalgun is a versatile performer whose artistry spans traditional Carnatic concerts, innovative duets, and global collaborative projects.
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Prattyush Banerjee has reimagined the sarod for a new generation. From his spellbinding Coke Studio performances to acclaimed Bollywood scores such as Piku and Madras Café, he is celebrated for fearlessly bridging traditional Indian classical music with contemporary soundscapes. His work invites the sarod to “speak many languages” while staying rooted in its classical lineage, opening the instrument to a broader and younger audience.
A true twenty-first-century musician, he moves fluidly between roles—performer, composer-arranger, researcher, and instrument designer. With a constant drive for innovation and originality, he has expanded the expressive and technical possibilities of the sarod, even creating its first electronic version, the Jyotidhwani, pushing the instrument boldly into the future.
“He showed delightful ingenuity, improvising on the bandish with melodic drop-offs and slides that were joyously breathtaking” (PulseConnects)
Prattyush will be joined on stage by Sukhvinder “Pinky” Singh on tabla — a powerhouse percussionist known around the world for his bold style, incredible technique, and magnetic energy.
Pinky has a way of lighting up a performance. His mix of spontaneity, finesse, and sheer power has made him one of the most in-demand accompanists. You might know him from his GRAMMY-winning collaboration with Ry Cooder and Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt on A Meeting by the River. As a solo artist, he’s equally impressive. Pinky is a leading voice in both the Punjab and Benares Gharana traditions, and he’s played a huge role in bringing fresh attention to the rare art of Jori playing.
There will also be a special appearance from Giuliano Modarelli on guitar. Giuliano is an Italian guitarist, composer, producer, and educator whose work transcends genres through deep cultural exchange and collaboration. Based in London, his sound draws from the city’s global influences—new jazz, electronic music, dub, and Indian classical traditions.