IRSHAD KHAN
As one of the foremost representatives of a musical heritage unprecedented in
India and the torch bearer of the younger generation of the ImdadKhani Etawa
Gharana, Irshad Khan is internationally recognized as one of the greatest sitar
players and as the leading Surbhar exponent of his generation. Irshad Khan's
individual stamp in both these instruments ascends from the distinctiveness of
his technique and mental prowess. His style is followed and inspired by many
formative and professional sitar players of his generation. His dedication to
the subtleties of the raga, in bringing out its essence in rendering its pure
form of feelings and expressions. His phenomenal control of the intricate "Gayaki-Ang"
(vocal) and "Tantra-Ang" (instrumental) styles makes Irshad Khan one of the most
dynamic musicians of today.
Being recognized as a child prodigy, today he has emerged, to be among the most
sought after and versatile Indian musicians of India. He has achieved
unparalleled mastery over Sitar-Surbahar technique and in different genres of
Indian music such as Dhrupad, Khyal, Tappa and Thumree. Whether he is performing
pure classical, folk or worldbeat/newage, audiences are stunned by his supreme
virtuosity and musicality. This remarkable versatility allows Irshad Khan to
transcend cultural barriers and turn each performance into a spellbinding and
unforgettable experience for audience every where.
Irshad Khan is the son and disciple of Ustad Imrat Khan and nephew of Ustad
Vilayat Khan. His family represents the most respected Gharana (musical
heritage) known as the Imdadkhani Gharana, of Sitar and Surbahar players in the
world. Dating back over four hundred years, Irshad's ancestors had been among
the best musicians and leading sitar players of India and are credited for the
introduction of the Gayaki -Ang, vocal style on the sitar. His family has been
paramount in the evolution of the sitar into its present form as well as in the
creation of the Surbahar, which was invented by Irshad's great-great grandfather
Ustad Sahebdad Khan.
Irshad Khan gave his first public performance at the age of seven. His
international debut was at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in London, England when he
was only 13. At 18, he made history by becoming the youngest soloist to perform
at one of the most prestigious international music festivals held in London,
known as the Indian All night concert at the Proms Since then, through his
performances and International press accolades and ground breaking albums, he
has proved to be an outstanding world musician. He has given more than 2000
performances, over 30 nations in 5 continents.
You can use some of these press reviews, which you can down load,
To listen to...... TOI,Bombay.
Breathtaking virtuosity... Navbharat, Gwalior.
A musician extraordinary....TOI, GOA, Bangalore.
His instruments emulates....The Lance, Windsor,Canada.
The blurred speed of hands... Irish Times, Ireland.
This was music.... South China Morning Post.
The Mozart of Indian Music.