Vijay Iyer Prasanna Nitin Mitta Tirtha

“Tirtha is a triumph; it is a high-water mark in hearing the constantly evolving discussion between jazz and Indian music.”—All Music

The collaborative trio Tirtha (pronounced TEER-tha), which released a fantastic CD of the same name, features jazz pianist Vijay Iyer, teamed with guitarist Prasanna, and Nitin Mitta on tablas. Drawing inspiration from the Carnatic traditions of Indian classical music, Tirtha also has immense jazz chops that push the band’s dynamic, organic musical explorations in ever-inventive ways.

As the Guardian says, “this is no routine Indo-jazz merging of postbop phrasing and Carnatic or Hindustani classical grooves.” Here’s more from that glowing review: “The three fuse their influences through many other catalysts, including Reichian minimalism and rock. There are staccato, rhythm-pattern vocals joined by jazz-piano chord vamps; humming themes; rockish piano/guitar jangles; and Ellingtonian rhapsodies. Iyer and his partners sound like a spontaneous ensemble from the outset—not self-conscious participants in a fusion experiment.”

Set up cabaret-style, our intimate Performance Space offers a perfect setting for live jazz. You experience the music up close with superb sound and can sip wine, beer, or a soft drink as you enjoy the show.