The Gyani Indo-Jazz Fusion group performs, a blend of ancient hindustani raga with American jazz. They'll be playing Capistrano Hall on the Sacramento State campus October 9 at 8:00 p.m. 

The performers include: renowned vocalist, harmonium player and composer Pandit Binay Pathak; American saxophonist George Brooks (considered the leading American voice in Indian Jazz fusion); one of the world's "100 Greatest Acoustic Guitarists", Matthew Montfort; and Vishal Nagar, one ofthe most gifted tabla players of his generation.

Group leader Pt. Pathak began his musical training at the age of six under the instruction of his father, legendary dhrupadist and sitarist, the late Pandit Balram Pathak. He studied Hindustani Classical music in a timeless, traditional and rigorous way in a traditional gharana dating back to legendary dhrupadist, Pandit Gopal Nayak in 16th century India.

George Brooks is a forward looking saxophonist who is readily able to bridge the gap between jazz and Indian classical music. Brooks has brought his innovative sound to groups led by Steve Smith, Hariprasad Chaurasia, Zakir Hussain, and Dr. L. Subramanium.

Born in New York City, Brooks began his early studies with jazz legend Frank Foster.  He later studied with innovative composer George Russell and performed regularly with pianist Jaki Byard.

In the 1980s Brooks took two trips to India. He immersed himself in the language, music , and culture and has since gone on to devote himself to fusing his jazz background with classical Indian music.

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Ticket Price

$15 general, $12 senior, $8 student

Ticket and Parking Information

CapRadio Music Staff