Swarupaka - Imagery of Nature's Music

Comprising a colourful mix of musicians and instruments, Swarupaka hopes to reach across the aisle and bring communities together in a harmonious celebration of multicultural Singapore. The musical presentation showcases traditional and contemporary pieces, rearranged to embody a flavour that is uniquely Singaporean. Presented by an all-professional troupe – five Carnatic musicians from Bhaskar’s Arts Academy and five artists from multi-genre ensemble Impressions of Nanyang Arts Association – Swarupaka traverses race, language and cultural barriers to unite people through music. The troupe is led by Music Directors Dr Ghanavenothan Retnam (BAA) and Dr Tan QingLun (INAA).

Swarupaka is conceptualised by Dr Ghanavenothan Retnam who has chosen Nature and her multiple facets, or Nature’s Navarasa (nine expressions) as the common thread. From the soothing breeze that caresses like love, to the instinctive joy that emanates during spring and the fear that creeps in during a thunderstorm on a dark night, Nature is unapologetically eloquent in her expression. Swarupaka seeks to capture her essence in all her magnificence through music pieces that showcase Nature's Navarasa.

The concert features original compositions such as a piece created by Western violinist Yong Kailin based on the poem Anger by local poet Alvin Pang. Representing valour is a purely percussive item arranged by INAA’s Music Director Dr Tan QingLun. The piece de resistance of the concert is an 18th century piece composed by one of Carnatic music’s revered trinity, Tyagaraja. Presented by the multi-cultural troupe in typical katcheri style, the piece evokes compassion.

And while Swarupaka is a celebration of the beauty and wonder of Nature, it also hopes to bring Nature closer to our everyday lives and remind us that despite her might, she is vulnerable in our hands.

Musicians:
Carnatic flute: Dr Ghanavenothan Retnam
Dizi: Dr Tan QingLun
Vocal: Ampili Pillai
Carnatic violin: TV Sajith
Violin: Yong Kailin
Accordion: Megat Muhammad Firdaus Mohd
Veena: TK Arunkumar
Cello: Tan Wen Bin
Mridangam: Nelluvai Ragesh
Chinese drums: Randy Tan

Swarupaka - Imagery of Nature's Music
5 Aug 2023 (Sat), 8pm
SOTA Concert Hall

*Show duration: 90 min without intermission
*No entry to children below 5