Recently, Pandit Divyang Vakil (Guruji) and Kathak dancer Won Joung Jin and Taalim School faculty member Loren Oppenheimer returned to India and New Jersey, respectively, after a successful tour of Canada.

The whirlwind Rhythm Riders tour included almost 2-3 events on

a daily basis. With stops in Kingston, Montreal and Toronto amongst others, it was chance to meet people of all sorts of backgrounds. One of the highlights of the tour was the opportunity to reach out to brand-new audiences, people who knew nothing or very little about Indian classical music and dance. It was a great experience to be able to introduce them to this magical world.

Guruji had all sorts of lectures and workshops scheduled. He spoke on music, tabla, yoga and general philosophy. Yoga practitioners thoroughly enjoyed his workshops on the relationship between yoga and music, not only did they learn of how the two were connected, but also got a deeper understanding of the meaning of yoga. Musicians got a different perspective on the role of music in society and the depth that music can hold, while of course, being dumbfounded by his oral recitation of tabla bols (padhant).

Loren’s workshops on tabla were equally well-received. His understanding and teaching experience was very evident in his presentation style. The captivated looks on the attendees faces’ as he explained the language of tabla and grew one small phrase into a large composition should have been photographed.

Jin conducted several Kathak workshops for professional dancers, dance students and amateurs. Her teaching style never failed to impress. One dance teacher at the school that teaches modern dance, jazz and ballet said, “Not only is Jin a highly skilled dancer, but in one short period, she easily communicated the essence of Kathak and taught our students some basics in a fun and engaging manner. Thank you for sharing Indian culture with us.”

In addition to workshops, there were of course performances. Intimate concerts and concerts in beautiful theatres. One highlight was Jin’s 1.5 hour solo performance at the Dance Capital Festival in Ottawa. Also, during this tour, Loren took the stage for the first time as a Kathak dance accompanist on tabla. He did a fantastic job. It was hard to believe that he and Jin only prepared the live portion of her Kathak performances in a matter of a few days. Loren also played many tabla solos.

Once the touring was over, Guruji’s American disciples came to Canada for a tabla retreat. There was lots and lots of tabla playing. Guruji did individual and group sittings. He taught a very smart teentaal peshkar, in addition to teentaal kaidas with kya-baat hai paltas and rupak bols. In all, the tour was a huge success.

We met some great people. Canadians are genuinely nice and helpful people and we can’t wait to be back.