Episode Summary: In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking "Bach in Bengal" project, a visionary orchestral program from the Fenimore Chamber Orchestra that bridges the gap between European Baroque counterpoint and North Indian classical music. We dive into the "outside-the-box" programming of Artistic Director Maciej Zoltowski, who has orchestrated a deliberate dialogue between the architectural clarity of J.S. Bach and the disciplined, expansive framework of the Indian raga.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• A Local Homecoming: Discover the deep roots of this project in Upstate New York, tracing the legacy of the late sitar master Roop Verma, who spent over 40 years teaching and performing in the region. We highlight his son, internationally acclaimed sitarist Arjun Verma, who grew up in Oneonta and returns to his home stage for this performance.

• The "Bach of the East": Learn about the inspiration behind the program: the legendary Ali Akbar Khan, whose Variations on a Bach Bourrée served as the template for this entire artistic exchange.

• Musical Fusion: A deep dive into the Indian Baroque Suite, a Mosaic America commission that weaves Indian ornamentation into the works of composers like Monteverdi and Fasch.

• The Language of Rhythm: Meet tabla virtuoso Naren Budhakar and learn how the intricate rhythmic cycles of the tala provide the heartbeat for this cross-cultural collaboration.

Concert Details: Experience this substantial artistry live at two intimate Upstate New York venues:

• Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 3:00 PM – Christ Church, Cooperstown, NY.

• Sunday, March 22, 2026, at 3:00 PM – Panther Creek Arts, West Fulton, NY.

Call to Action: Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness a "charming blend" of two distinct yet complementary musical worlds.

Book your tickets today at: 👉 www.fenimore-orchestra.org 👉 www.panthercreekarts.com

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Featured Artists:

• Arjun K. Verma, Sitar (@sitarify)

• Naren Budhakar, Tabla (@drumsofindia)

• Fenimore Chamber Orchestra, conducted by Maciej Zoltowski

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