Morning Riyaaz with Pelva Naik

In Indian Classical music tradition, the concept of the first practice at daybreak, or early morning riyaaz, has always been sacrosanct. Morning raagas have the quality of the first bloom; the slow start of a new experience. Often meant to rouse the gods, or offer gratitude for the new morning and passing of the night, these compositions go beyond a simple listening experience to resonate within the artistic soul.

The first season of G5A forum’s Morning Riyaaz, features extraordinary women vocalists trained in various forms of Indian classical music, each bringing their own distinctive quality to their practice. They will be presenting raagas interspersed with conversations that help us understand the nuances and importance of these forms.

In this first session, Pelva Naik shares her thoughts on how a form can be so structured and rooted, and yet abstract. Pelva is a solo Indian vocalist of the ancient genre of classical music–Dhrupad, trained under the eminent Dagar School of Music. In her music, Pelva endeavors to adhere sincerely to the traditional elements - so complete in themselves. At the same time, with the help of the great liberty that the discipline of dhrupad offers, she strives to cultivate fresh characteristics that are personal and distinct.

Pelva is accompanied by Sanjay Agle, an unassuming artist and a prolific teacher, on the Pakhawaj, and supported by her students, Renuka and Aarya, on the Tanpura.

Morning Riyaaz is supported by the G5A A.R.T. Fund and the Kshirsagar Apte Foundation, we’d like to thank all the donors for their consistent support.

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