Classical music at Shilpakala Academy

Shamima Parveen during a performance at the musical soiree. PHOTO: STAR

About 80 prominent and promising classical music practitioners will render vocal and instrumental classical music.

In his inauguration speech Abul Kamal Shafi Ahmed, the director of Department of Dance and Music of BSA, said, "Classical music is the pulse of music. It may be less popular but will never fade out like other popular music genres. And those who grasp the essence of classical music are transported to another plane."

Sarod player, Ustad Shahadat Hossain Khan said, "A four-day musical soiree is insufficient to promote classical music. There should be at least four soirees a year, so that the classical music practitioners get the scope to prove their talent. Moreover, young talents especially the instrument players should be given priority, otherwise there will no more instrument players in the country."

Director General of BSA and chief guest Ahmed Nazir in his speech said, "BSA has initiated a programme to preserve the endangered cultural heritage of the country. In future BSA will arrange more programmes to promote classical music."

The first day's programme began with an impressive rendition of Behag raga by Amin Akhtar Sadmani. Acclaimed singer Siffat-e- Manzoor rendered Bhairabi, Iakub Ali Khan rendered Vinna Saraj, Mangal Chandra Mandal rendered Emon, Shamima Parveen rendered Desh raga. The presentation of Puria Dhanesree by promising singer Bakul Rani Chakrabarti was greeted with applause.

Ustad Shahadat Hossain Khan presented Desh Mallar on sarod on the opening day.