The Ravi Shankar Collection: In San Francisco

Experience the timeless artistry of Ravi Shankar with "The Ravi Shankar Collection: In San Francisco," a captivating live album recorded at San Francisco's Maritime Hall. Originally released in 1966 and remastered for this 2000 edition, this album showcases Ravi Shankar's mastery of the sitar and his profound influence on both Eastern and Western music.

The album opens with a spoken introduction by Ravi Shankar himself, setting the stage for a mesmerizing journey through traditional Indian classical music. The tracklist features a blend of intricate ragas and dynamic tabla solos, including "Raga Bhupal Todi - Tala Ardha Jaital" and "Tabla Solo In Shikhar Tal." The album also includes the enchanting "Dhun: Tala Dadra," a composition that highlights Ravi Shankar's unique ability to blend traditional melodies with modern sensibilities.

This live recording captures the essence of Ravi Shankar's performances, offering a rare opportunity to experience his music as it was intended to be heard—live and unfiltered. The album's duration of 50 minutes is filled with moments of pure musical genius, making it a essential addition to any music lover's collection.

"In San Francisco" is a testament to Ravi Shankar's enduring legacy and his impact on the world of music. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to his work, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Ravi Shankar, born Robindro Shaunkor Chowdhury, was a trailblazing Indian sitarist and composer who captivated global audiences with his mastery of Hindustani classical music. Born in Varanasi in 1920, Shankar's journey began as a dancer touring Europe before he dedicated himself to the sitar, studying under the renowned guru Baba Allaudin Khan. Throughout his career, he became the world's most famous sitar player, earning the title of Pandit and spreading appreciation for Indian classical music worldwide. Shankar's influence extended far beyond his performances; he collaborated with Western musicians, composed for films, and even mentored his daughters, the acclaimed singer Norah Jones and sitarist Anoushka Shankar. His contributions to music were recognized with India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999. Shankar's legacy endures as a testament to his unparalleled artistry and his role in bridging Eastern and Western musical traditions.