Historic melting pot, Goa is an ideal setting for music event promoting global peace : Chicago-based Music Group

Goa Khabar : Music has the power to foster global peace and unite diverse cultures, and Goa’s multiculturalism presents the ideal setting for the display of global music traditions, according to globally celebrated musicians Carlo Basile and Juan Dies. As members of ‘Surabhi Ensemble’, an award-winning world music band based in Chicago, USA, the duo spoke about how their collaborative artistry embodies this vision during the recent MOG Sundays talk at the Museum of Goa (MOG), Pilerne.

Founded by award-winning Chicago-based veena artiste of Indian origin Saraswathi Ranganathan and guitarist Carlo Basile, ‘Surabhi Ensemble’ seamlessly blends diverse global musical traditions to promote cross-cultural connections, guided by their vision of ‘#liveasonefamily’. Currently touring India as part of their Global Peace Tour ‘Bridging Cultures Through Harmony’, the ensemble, which is conducting a series of musical initiatives in Goa from January 5 – 9 will bring the vibrancy of global musical cultures to the Museum of Goa on January 8. The ensemble will conclude their Indian tour in Goa.

“Goa seems like the perfect place to conclude our tour in India since it was an important port that welcomed many cultures back in the day. The Museum of Goa also follows in these footsteps. Because of  the topography of Goa and the nature of the designs at MOG, I think the museum lends itself to the concept that we’re talking of – many cultures coming together,” said Carlo Basile, co-founder of ‘Surabhi Ensemble’ and Spanish acoustic guitarist.

The ‘Surabhi Ensemble’ has travelled across the US, Europe, Africa and Asia to spread the idea of music as a promoter of peace. Incorporating Carnatic ragas, Spanish flamenco, West African drumming, Middle Eastern maqam (a system of melodic modes) and Mexican folk music, the ensemble’s performances also seamlessly integrate dance forms like Bharatnatyam, Rajasthani folk and flamenco.

Addressing the challenges of blending such diverse art forms into a single harmonious performance, Mexican guitarist and vocalist of ‘Surabhi Ensemble’ Juan Dies stated, “Knowing when to take the lead role and when to take a supporting role is crucial, and so is listening and not being egotistical. As musicians, we’re not just performing and saying things, but sharing important messages and cultural insights.”

The ensemble has performed in various venues worldwide, but performing at a museum marks a significant milestone for them.

“When you experience art at a museum or an art gallery, you feel better about yourself and the world. That is what art is supposed to do. And I think that’s what we want our Goan audience to take away from our performance here,” concluded Basile.