An Evening to Remember: Concert Highlights & Impact

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Picture Credit: Maanas Sanjay

On June 8, we hosted a South Indian classical concert featuring veena artist Ramana Balachandhran and mridangam artist Patri Satish Kumar -- marking Ramana's first appearance in St.Louis. The performance brought together over 150 attendees from across the region, including around 25 from out-of-state, marking our first major public production.

The goal of this event was not only to present world-class music, but to create a thoughtful, well-executed experience for both new and familiar listeners. From the outset, the audience’s attention was palpable. Listeners remained fully engaged throughout the performance, and the roaring response to key moments — including the Rāgam–Tānam–Pallavi in Ragam Desh and the Thani Avartanam by Patri Sir— reflected a deep level of listening and appreciation. These were not moments of automatic applause (in fact, there were audible cheers), but of recognition and resonance.

The concert began and ended promptly, and audience members repeatedly noted the clarity and flow of the program. Dozens stayed after the performance to speak with the artists, and we received a number of messages in the days that followed — through social media, email, and direct outreach — expressing appreciation for the experience and interest in learning more about the art form.

Picture Credit: Maanas Sanjay

By the numbers:

• We welcomed an audience of 150 — a scale that exceeds the usual turnout for this kind of programming locally. For us, this isn’t just about numbers; it affirms that there is room, and real demand, for South Asian classical performance presented with intentionality and access.

• Over 30 students were present in the audience — several returned for the workshop, and a number of them have since expressed interest in volunteering and staying involved with future programming.

• 20 participants joined the 2-day interactive workshop — including vocal and instrumental students, teachers, and newer listeners.

• Multiple attendees, including educators and community members, reached out with follow-up questions and interest in future events.

As an organization, we remain committed to building spaces where classical performance is not only presented, but contextualized and made meaningful. This concert affirmed the potential for that kind of work in St. Louis — and we're grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.