Event

Memorial Union Welcomes Esteemed Musical Trio TISRA for a Night of Classical Music

Published March 13, 2024

On the evening of March 16th, the Wisconsin Union Directorate Performing Arts Committee is excited to present a performance by the internationally acclaimed music ensemble, TISRA, at the Memorial Union's Shannon Hall. The group's name, TISRA, signifies 'three', reflecting the trio's composition, and includes some of the most celebrated musicians in the world: Zakir Hussain, Debopriya Chatterjee, and Sabir Khan.

An Eclectic Mix of Master Musicians

The trio boasts a rich blend of talents with Zakir Hussain, a virtuoso of the tabla, owning a vast discography accompanied by prestigious Indian civilian awards, and Grammy accolades. Debopriya Chatterjee, alongside her sister known as the 'flute sisters', ranks at the crest of bansuri performers globally. Complementing them is Sabir Khan, with a family legacy of nine generations in sarangi playing, who is deeply immersed in the Indian classical music tradition and has lent his craft to numerous film scores. Together, their synergy promises a transcendent musical experience.

University Students at the Helm of Art Presentation

The Wisconsin Union Directorate Performing Arts Committee (WUD PAC), composed of University of Wisconsin students, prides itself on its unique role in shaping the performing arts scene at the Wisconsin Union Theater. WUD PAC's planning and selection process grants students unprecedented influence in bringing enriching artistic performances to the campus--a responsibility they approach with passion and meticulous care.

As part of TISRA's national tour, the stop at Madison is a significant event for the community, providing a rare opportunity to immerse in the depth of South Asian music, often unfamiliar to many. A diverse tapestry of music across the globe is evident in WUD PAC's programming, a testament to their commitment to cultural variety and education.

A Performance Rooted in Tradition With Universal Appeal

The expression within the trio's music, passed down through generations and perfected over lifetimes, offers an auditory journey that resonates with the soul. Azura Tyabji, Director of WUD PAC and UW senior, anticipates the event will forge connections and broaden the horizons of those less acquainted with this rich cultural offering. The collective mastery of Hussain, Chatterjee, and Khan bridges centuries of tradition right into the heart of modern-day Madison.

The 90-minute concert scheduled for 7:30 p.m. will also feature an interlude, providing attendees a moment for reflection. An hour before the performance, a cash bar will be available at the Sunset Lounge, fostering a communal atmosphere leading up to the show.

With attractive ticket pricing for University of Wisconsin students, the event is positioned as an accessible cultural gem for the student body and wider community alike. The organizers hope everyone will depart with a newfound appreciation for classical music in its myriad forms, perhaps having found a tranquil counterpoint to the rigors of daily life.

music, performance, culture