Ramana Balachandhran & Patri Satish Kumar

A Veena Recital Rooted in Tradition, Bridging into the Contemporary

June 8 | 4pm | Ladue High School

Curator's Note

This concert marked the beginning of Janya’s performance journey — an intimate evening centered on sound, clarity, and presence. Ramana Balachandhran’s artistry speaks through refined detail: subtle dynamic shifts and a deep internal rhythm that invites the listener closer. Accompanied by none other than the inspirational Vidwan Patri Satish Kumar, we had the opportunity to truly make an impact on our community.

Our intention was simple: to create a listening space where every phrase could be felt, not just heard. Audiences arrived with curiosity, many encountering the veena for the first time, and the result was a room fully attuned to the music unfolding before them.

This program set the tone for Janya’s commitment to crafting thoughtful, immersive experiences grounded in artistic integrity and meaningful engagement.

Meet the Artists

Created in-house, designed to spark conversation, collaboration, and push creative boundaries

Ramana Balachandhran

One of the most acclaimed veena artists of his generation, Ramana brings breathtaking clarity and depth to this intricate instrument. With training in vocal and percussion traditions, his music blends raga richness with rhythmic brilliance. He’s performed across India and the world — including at Rashtrapathi Bhavan — and was the youngest veena artist invited by the Madras Music Academy. A direct A-grade awardee from All India Radio, Ramana is a true prodigy (although he's too humble to admit it, as the audience found out during out Q&A).

Ramana's Website

Patri Satish Kumar

Patri Satish Kumar is a mridangam maestro and rhythmic innovator, honored with India’s Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and an honorary doctorate from UC Berkeley. With nearly five decades of global performances, he’s redefined Carnatic percussion with creations like the Trim Mridangam and the solo concept “Gajaana.” His artistry has lit up stages from the Kennedy Center to the Sydney Opera House. A mentor, author, and festival founder, Patri Sir continues to inspire — if you ask him why, he’ll tell you “music is my life.”

Audience Voices

"This concert was really something special. You could feel that people were listening closely — it was immersive."

Audience Member

“I had never heard the veena or mridangam before. I was amazed and completely transported. It was unexpectedly eye- and ear-opening.”

First-time Attendee

“The Q&A was so thoughtful. Both artists communicated with such clarity and humility — it left an impression.”

Audience Member

“It’s great to see a younger generation leading this work with such professionalism. Everything was smooth, the sound was excellent, and the experience was memorable.”

Performing Artist

Watch Clip