The Dagar Ensemble

Dhrupad is the most ancient form of Indian classical music which evolved from recitations of the Sam Veda prayer chants. The Dagar family has dedicated themselves to the preservation of the dhrupad form. The dagarvani dhrupad has traditionally been performed as a Jugalbandi (duet) which preserves the emotional appeal while adding the richness of intricate rhythmic patterns and spontaneity. Young vocalist Ustad F. Wasifuddin Dagar continues this 20 generation unbroken tradition of the Dagar family. He is the nephew of Ustad N. Zahiruddin Dagar and the son of Ustad N. Faiyazuddin Dagar— known as the legendary Dagar Brothers. After continuing the jugalbandi tradition with his uncle till his demise in 1994, Wasif developed a solo performance which maintains the distinct musical approaches and styles of both his father and uncle. His innovative alap notes are spacious and colorful, ranging across the three octaves delineating the personality of the raga in great clarity. The composite effect of his dhrupad rendition remains traditional, merging techniques and styles of both his teachers. His is very popular with young listeners for his lively lecture demonstrations illustrating old Vedic technicalities through metaphors from daily life. Wasif has a number of recordings on cassette and CD including a five-disc collection. He is accompanied by Mohan Shyam Sharma, one of the leading pakhawaj (two-sided barrel drum) masters in India who is a disciple of Pandit Tota Ram Sharma of Mathura and has accompanied leading vocal and instrumental masters and appeared in concerts across Europe and the United States.

$22/$17 Members & Students. Available in advance, by phone or in person, at the Outpost Performance Space (268-0044)