Temporal Taal Collective
Who We Are
For performing arts centers, festival curators, and orchestral programmers seeking to diversify their event lineup with culturally engaging performances, the Temporal Taal Collective delivers an unparalleled blend of Indian classical music, jazz improvisation, and global instrumentation. Led by bansuri and saxophone virtuoso Anjan Shah, renowned tabla artist Nabin Shrestha, award-winning bassist Amy Shook, and esteemed guitarist Jonathan Epley, this ensemble weaves a transcendent tapestry that bridges centuries of music heritage with modern, forward-thinking sounds. Inspired by iconic cross-cultural projects such as Yo-Yo Ma’s Silkroad and John McLaughlin’s Shakti, the Temporal Taal Collective fuses tradition with innovation, creating performances that attract both seasoned patrons and new audiences looking for cutting-edge artistry.
Their diverse appearances have included collaborations with prestigious orchestras like the Spectrum Studio Orchestra, the Charlotte Symphony, and the Hopkins Symphony Orchestra, as well as stand-alone showcases at the Charlotte International Arts Festival’s Festival of India. Signature compositions like the 22-minute “Nightfall Rhapsody” highlight the group’s commitment to immersive storytelling, transporting listeners through layers of melodic expression that honor cultural roots while evolving into contemporary forms.
A Visually and Sonically Compelling Journey Beyond staging a concert, the Temporal Taal Collective offers an integrated performance experience that appeals to both artistic administrators and executive directors seeking fresh, memorable programming. By incorporating Kathak dance, led by acclaimed choreographer Sarah Morelli, each production gains an additional layer of visual storytelling. This century-old classical dance form, known for its intricate footwork and emotive gestures, accentuates the Collective’s dynamic soundscape, engaging audiences through compelling onstage dialogue between music and movement.
For performing arts series looking to attract broader demographics, this cross-cultural interplay brings universal themes to life. Attendees witness the interplay of melodic improvisation, global rhythms, and visually striking dance—an all-encompassing presentation designed to captivate both traditional concertgoers and those seeking unique, globally influenced performances.
Embracing Tradition While Shaping the Future
With a repertoire spanning classical training, jazz improvisation, and global rhythms, the Temporal Taal Collective resonates with artistic planners eager to feature programs that celebrate cultural heritage while embracing modern flair. The bansuri’s ancient raga lines intertwine with the saxophone’s contemporary jazz motifs, tabla punctuates these conversations with invigorating percussive energy, and the bass and guitar provide a current-day edge that balances the traditional elements.
This synergy of historic and contemporary styles reaches beyond a single musical genre, ensuring presenting organizations can engage communities that crave artistic depth, forward-thinking innovation, and authentic cross-cultural artistry. By combining long-standing forms with new ideas, the Collective’s music appeals equally to connoisseurs of Indian classical traditions, jazz enthusiasts, and broader audiences seeking meaningful artistic experiences.
An Invitation to Connect and Collaborate
The Temporal Taal Collective also excels in fostering community outreach, offering workshops, masterclasses, and collaborative residency programs that draw in local musicians, music students, and cultural enthusiasts. Participants gain hands-on insight into Kathak dance techniques, explore how to merge global improvisational styles, and discover practical ways to integrate various cultural legacies into contemporary performance settings.
By expanding cultural awareness and championing new forms of expression, these educational initiatives help performing arts administrators, board members, and executive directors demonstrate a commitment to enriching local communities. This collaborative approach grows audience loyalty, attracts new patrons, and strengthens ties with diverse population segments. Ultimately, the Temporal Taal Collective provides more than just a performance—it builds bridges, inviting institutions and audiences to explore the transformative power of music, dance, and shared human connections.
Programs
Harmonic Confluence: Where Cultures Meet in Music
This program fuses jazz improvisation, Indian ragas, and Kathak dance into a captivating multi-sensory experience, inspiring connection through the arts.
Nightfall Rhapsody
Nightfall Rhapsody seamlessly merges Hindustani traditions, Western orchestration, and Kathak dance into a transcendent 22-minute concerto, powerfully celebrating cultural fusion.
Educational Offerings
The Temporal Taal Collective’s immersive educational sessions illuminate global music fusion, Kathak dance, composition, and professional development for modern musicians.
