Come join Siddhartha aka Saffron Skies and friends for a special soulful evening where Indian classical music and mindfulness unite, as we invoke the names of various divine manifestations through the powerful tradition of call and response singing also known as Kirtan
During the event, you’ll also experience the beauty of Indian classical music through a special Sitar performance by classically trained sitarist Thomas Klepper who will be accompanied by the famous Los Angeles Tabla player Saheb Singh. The Sitar is a traditional Indian instrument known for its soothing tunes
This gathering is an invitation to celebrate the spiritual harmony that music can bring to our lives facilitating transformation and healing . Whether you’re new to Kirtan or a long-time fan, come and share in an evening of musical discovery and community connection.
Line up
- Siddhartha:- Vocals, Keyboard, Handpans
- Thomas Klepper:- Sitar
- VimalaDasi:- Vocals
- Saheb Singh: Tablas
- Katherine Chitnis:- Kartals
- Anita Sinclair:- Tanpura
What is Kirtan?
Kirtan music as a form of mantra meditation. Everyone experiences kirtan differently, you can think of it as a sing-along. A broad definition of Kirtan music is a gathering emphasizing participatory, transformational music. It’s a form of mantra meditation.
Kirtan is a growing phenomenon in the West, often associated with yoga studios or meditation centers. The value of kirtan music as a form of group singing is being studied scientifically as a powerful antidote to isolation and stress in modern society.
The word “kirtan” means sharing, telling or reciting. There are no particular beliefs required and you do not have to be a musician. Participation in singing is voluntary.
Bio
Siddharth (Sidd) aka Saffron Skies is a Los Angeles-based musician with two decades of experience in performing and teaching Indian classical music. With a degree in percussions, he focuses on traditional classical rhythms and harmonies with a touch of modern contemporary styles through his own melodies & grooves on handpan.
Sidd has performed solo and in accompaniment at numerous venues, festivals and cultural events in India and abroad. Exploring creativity, he continues to collaborate with various artists to bridge musical themes of East and West.
Sidd’s music mainly draws inspiration from folk elements of Eastern percussion and Bollywood drama, creating a rich and impassioned experience for the audience
Thomas Klepper is a musician, producer, and audio engineer from downtown Los Angeles. A classically trained cellist, jazz trained bassist, Tommy started playing and performing at a young age. He currently is a sitarist and harmonium player, studying Hindustani ragas. He fuses his past experience of Western classical, jazz, electronic music, audio engineering with the North Indian system of music. Further, Tommy hosts weekly sound baths and teaches yoga. His work speaks to the experience of his life: traditional elements met with a variety of new styles to create something unique.
Saffron Skies Story
Founded by Sidd, Saffron Skies is a dynamic sound collective based in Los Angeles specializing in a variety of meditative, therapeutic and devotional offerings. Sidd draws upon his Indian roots and, along with a few fellow musicians in Los Angeles, brings Kirtan, sound baths, and Indian classical performances to audiences. Co-facilitator and Reiki Master Katherine Chitnis enriches Saffron events with energy healing, elevating the experience for attendees. Saffron Skies creates immersive and transformative musical experiences, fulfilling their mission of sharing sacred melodies with the world.