Rod Thomas Squance, marimba and Abbas Janmohamed, tabla present North Indian classical raga music with a fresh, exciting and highly entertaining approach that still preserves the integrity and authenticity of this centuries-old tradition.

Using an innovative new marimba for raga of Rod’s own design (that allows him to play seated on the floor), paired with the traditional tabla drums, they harness the great rhythmic potential of Indian music while maintaining its flowing lyricism. As is the tradition, this music is largely improvised, but these good friends astonish audiences with their ability to communicate with each other fluently through their instruments, creating music spontaneously on stage, the fruit of a vigorous and intense melodic and rhythmic conversation.

Ranging from intimately delicate to rhythmically explosive, their music takes audiences on a journey exploring every emotional nuance of each raga they present. Their concerts are also informative, as engaging discussions about the tradition, the inner structure of raga music, and their instruments are dispersed throughout the concert.Their music is truly unique; there isn’t another artist or group presenting raga in quite the same way anywhere. From their fresh stylistic approach to the one-of-a-kind marimba Rod has created, this is Indian classical music that respects the tradition yet redesigns the experience.

In this concert they will perform pieces that represent the full range of their repertoire, including traditional Hindustani classical raga, Western-style composition, and repertoire situated somewhere in between.

Rod Thomas Squance is quickly gaining recognition as one of Canada’s most exciting musicians. A stunning soloist, Rod captivates audiences with his perfect blend of compelling musicianship, sparkling technique, and exotic sound. Rod is very active as a soloist and freelance percussionist in chamber, orchestral, jazz and world music settings.

As a two-time recipient of the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Arts Fellowship Award, Canadian born tabla artist Abbas Janmohamed moved to India between 2005-2006 and 2010- 2011 to pursue his study of classical tabla. True to his multicultural heritage, Abbas embraces innovative cross-cultural collaborations, but he also places great emphasis on preserving the integrity and authenticity of this classical Indian percussion.