Zakir Hussain “Masters of Percussion”
Tabla maestro Zakir Hussain, 4x Grammy-award winner, celebrated for his groundbreaking contributions to global music, leads a world-class ensemble of percussion virtuosos on the Wheeler stage. Hussain’s influence extends beyond Indian classical music, with collaborations spanning legends like John McLaughlin and Mickey Hart, and projects such as Shakti and Planet Drum. His mastery and passion have inspired audiences worldwide, and now he brings his artistry to Aspen.
Joining him on stage are four extraordinary musicians: French djembe specialist Melissa Hié, whose melodic touch and deep knowledge of African rhythms have led to collaborations with artists like Damon Albarn; Anantha Krishnan, a mridangam prodigy who blends traditional South Indian percussion with global influences; Shikhar Naad Qureshi, who redefines the djembe and drum set with his trailblazing techniques inherited from a family of percussion legends; Sriram Ramesh, a master of the South Indian frame drum Khanjira, known for his precise and innovative rhythms; all bringing years of collaboration with Zakir Hussain and recognition as an award-winning artist. Together, they create a vibrant, cross-cultural celebration of rhythm that promises to mesmerize and inspire.
About the artists
Zakir Hussain, the world’s leading tabla virtuoso, is a legendary figure in global music. Celebrated for his technical mastery and innovative spirit, he has transcended cultural boundaries, shaping a new era of percussion. As a child prodigy who began touring internationally by the age of eighteen, Hussain has collaborated with icons such as John McLaughlin in Shakti, Mickey Hart in Planet Drum, and Charles Lloyd in Sangam. His compositions for film and orchestras, as well as his award-winning performances, have earned him prestigious honors, including five Grammy Awards and the Padma Vibhushan. Hussain continues to be a cultural ambassador, bringing the art of tabla to audiences worldwide.
Melissa Hié is a renowned French djembe artist, celebrated for her mastery of African rhythms and her unique melodic touch. Growing up in a musical family, she was immersed in traditional percussion from an early age, learning instruments like the balafon and barra before dedicating herself to the djembe. Hié’s career has seen her collaborating with international artists, including Damon Albarn and Zakir Hussain, and exploring genres ranging from jazz to electronic music. Her performances captivate audiences with a blend of tradition and innovation, making her a standout in the world of global percussion.
Anantha Krishnan, a mridangam maestro, is the grandson and disciple of the legendary Shri Palghat R. Raghu. Initially trained by his uncle, Shri R. Ramkumar, Krishnan later expanded his percussion expertise under the guidance of Ustad Zakir Hussain. He holds degrees in music from Dartmouth College and Mills College and currently teaches at AR Rahman’s KM Music Conservatory in Chennai. An award-winning artist, Krishnan has been honored with the Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar for Contemporary Music and continues to blend traditional mridangam techniques with modern musical contexts, creating a powerful and innovative sound.
Shikhar Naad Qureshi is a groundbreaking percussionist who carries forward the legacy of his legendary family. The son of Ustad Taufiq Qureshi and grandson of tabla icon Ustad Allarakha, Shikhar has redefined the art of drumming by adapting classical tabla techniques to the djembe and drum set. His performances are celebrated for their energy and innovation, and he has shared the stage with luminaries like Ustad Zakir Hussain and Vikku Vinayakram. An emerging force in contemporary rhythm, Shikhar has earned recognition for his artistry and continues to push the boundaries of global percussion.
Sriram Ramesh is a distinguished Khanjira player from Chennai, India, known for his masterful blend of traditional South Indian rhythms with contemporary influences. Under the mentorship of some of Chennai’s most esteemed percussionists, Ramesh developed a style that is both mathematically precise and artistically expressive. His passion for rhythm has led to performances at major venues worldwide and collaborations with celebrated artists in both classical and fusion music. Ramesh’s innovative approach to the Khanjira has made him a sought-after artist in the world of South Indian percussion.
