Shivkumar Sharma and Zakir Hussain (santoor and tabla, respectively) put on an incredible concert in Pittsburgh last night and are still early on in their tour. If they play anywhere near you, see them! Quite possibly the best concert I've EVER seen! (Out of at least 500 in my lifetime)
Shivkumar's playing crackles with energy from the first delicate notes of the alap section and builds through the jhala till you're ready to explode! As the tabla comes in during the first gat (metered composition), the interplay between lead and accompaniment is breathtaking. Shivkumar and Zakir are constantly connected while simultaneously free to soar to dizzying heights at a whim. The second half consisted of a light classical composition that was at times sparklingly pretty and then as electrifying as bolt of lightning through your spine.

Once again, if at all possible, see these two brilliant classical Indian maestros. You'll tell your grandkids about it!

Rich