Tenth Decade In Concert

Experience the legendary Ravi Shankar in his final live performances with "Tenth Decade In Concert: Live In Escondido," a captivating audiovisual document released in 2012. This album, recorded in October 2011 at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido, showcases the maestro at the pinnacle of his career, just shy of his 92nd birthday. Over the course of an hour and fourteen minutes, Shankar's virtuosity on the sitar is on full display, accompanied by intricate rhythms and harmonies that have made him a global icon of Indian classical music.

The album features five extended compositions, each a testament to Shankar's mastery of ragas and talas. From the introspective "Yaman Kalyan" to the energetic "Taal Vadya," each track offers a unique glimpse into Shankar's artistic vision. Notably, this concert marks the introduction of Shankar's innovative percussive sitar, a testament to his continual evolution as an artist.

Directed by Alan Kozlowski, the concert film provides an intimate look at Shankar's performance, capturing not just the music, but also the spirit of the artist. The album is a fitting tribute to a career that spanned over seven decades, and a reminder of why Ravi Shankar remains one of the most influential musicians of our time. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Shankar's music, "Tenth Decade In Concert: Live In Escondido" is an essential addition to any music collection.

Ravi Shankar, born Robindra Shankar Chowdhury, was a titan of Indian classical music, renowned globally for his mastery of the sitar. Born in Varanasi, India, in 1920, Shankar's journey began at the tender age of 10, performing with his family's dance troupe across Europe and the U.S. His virtuosity and compositions, including several original ragas, captivated audiences worldwide, making him the most famous ambassador of Indian classical music in the West during the latter half of the 20th century. Shankar's influence extended beyond his performances, inspiring countless musicians, including those from the Beatles, with whom he collaborated. His compositions for films like "Gandhi" further cemented his legacy. Beyond his musical prowess, Shankar was a dedicated teacher, nurturing a new generation of musicians. His personal life included his daughters, the acclaimed singer Norah Jones and sitar player Anoushka Shankar, both of whom carry forward his musical heritage. Shankar's contributions earned him India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999, and his impact on global music remains unparalleled.