Songs Sung True

For the past 10 years,Delhi-based gospel singer Sonam Kalra has regaled audiences with renditions of hymns. Now,using her training in jazz and Hindustani classical music,Kalra is set to present a new project,the Sufi Gospel Project,in which she will blend traditional gospel music with Sufi poetry by Kabir,Rumi and Amir Khusrau. A concert will be held on May 10.

“My training in Hindustani classical music and gospel music makes it easier for me to blend these styles. In this performance,prayer,poetry and music will come together to present a fresh burst of devotion,” says Kalra,who conceived the project a few months ago,when she was told to sing gospel music at the Inayat Khan dargah to commemorate the birth centenary of the Sufi saint. “My gospel singing is usually accompanied by the bass guitar and piano. But at the dargah,I found myself blending my music with sarangi and other Indian instruments. I felt my music was evolving and sounded beautiful. Thus,the Sufi Gospel Project was born,” says Kalra,who will open the concert by blending the famous hymn Amazing Grace with Sufi poetry and music from Indian instruments.

The musician has roped in flautist Rajesh Prasanna,tabla artiste Amaan Ali Khan,sarangi player Ahsan Ali Khan,percussionist Susheel Sharma,guitarist Daniel Paul and pianist Alex Fernandes to be a part of the project.

The performance will be held at IHC on May 10. Time: 7 pm. Contact: 24682001