February 13, 2003

Global sound to thrill University audiences

Musicians from around the globe are tuning their instruments for appearances in California State University, Sacramento's world music series. The spring series begins with a young flutist accompanied by Indian instruments and finishes with an uptempo group combining Arabian and American harmonies.

Organizer and music professor Jim Chopyak says the concerts are remarkable and feature a high caliber of performances. "The community is also very supportive and the atmosphere is wonderful," he says. "We have a very diverse audience."

At 7 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 23, 24-year-old Shashank will play the flute, accompanied by several other people on various Indian instruments. Shashank was six years old when, without any lessons, he picked up his father's flute and began playing. Tickets are $5 for students and seniors and $10 general admission.

Korean musician Jin Hi Kim will perform 8 p.m., Saturday, March 15. She will captivate the audience with her komungo, a 14th century instrument similar to a zither. Admission is $5 for students and seniors and $10 for general audiences.

North Indian musicians visit campus at 8 p.m., Saturday, March 29. Tarun Bhattacharya plays the santur and Ronu Mukherjee, the flute. Bhattacharya recently performed in London's Royal Albert Hall. Prices are $8 for students and seniors and $15 for general admission.

Sitar player Shubhendra Rao and cellist Saskia Rao-De Haas will perform at 8 p.m. on Saturday, April 26. The husband-and-wife team has traveled throughout the United States, France, England and India playing their own compositions. Admission is $8 for students and seniors and $15 general.

The audience will receive a taste of Arabic fusion music at 8 p.m. on Saturday, May 10. Ancient Future combines American and Arabic music and tempos to inspire audiences to dance. Tickets are $5 for students and seniors. General admission is $10.

All the concerts are in Capistrano Hall's music recital hall. Tickets are available through the CSUS Ticket Office (916) 278-4323 or through Tickets.com at (916) 766-2277. Additional media assistance is available by contacting the CSUS public affairs office at (916) 278-6156.

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