The LayaPriya School of Performing Arts, Vancouver, is a sanctum dedicated to preserving the intricate fabric of South Indian Classical Karnatik Music and Rhythm. We are a dedicated collective of performers influenced by scholars and musicologists, united in our pursuit of excellence. Our mission is to ignite a passion for sound within the minds of aspiring musicians, nurturing their talents from early childhood and fostering a lifelong appreciation for this profound art form.

Our mandate is to elevate the Karnatik Music & Mridangam, a revered percussion instrument, to a global stage, preserving its rich heritage and inspiring future generations of musicians. By disseminating the knowledge of the renowned Karaikudi Mani Bani, a new age mridangam style, we seek to foster a deeper appreciation for the instrument’s intricate rhythms developed by Guru Karaikudi R Mani.

Karnatik music is one of the most sophisticated oldest systems of classical music, rooted in South India. Its foundation lies in a highly structured system that emphasizes raga (melody) and tala (rhythm), offering limitless possibilities for improvisation and expression. Indian classical music traces its roots to the Samaveda, one of the four foundational texts of the Vedas, dating back over 24,000 years (according to scholar Nilesh Oak). This ancient scripture serves as the bedrock of Indian classical music, shaping its intricate melodies, rhythmic structures, and spiritual significance.

A Shruti Laya Bhedam - Symphony of Cultural Fusion

Shruti Laya Bhedam, a Vancouver-based ensemble, stands as a testament to the harmonious convergence of traditional Indian Karnatic classical music and contemporary genres. The name itself, derived from Sanskrit, signifies “Melody, Rhythm, and Variation,” suggests that the ensemble’s music is characterised by a harmonious interplay of different musical styles and influences. Comprised of exceptionally talented artists who have honed their skills under esteemed maestros for over two decades, Shruti Laya Bhedam has been captivating audiences in Vancouver since 2023. Each member brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the ensemble, creating a synergy that is both powerful and inspiring.

Beyond their exceptional musical abilities, Shruti Laya Bhedam is deeply committed to fostering cross-cultural collaborations and promoting social change. As an ardent advocate for peace and unity, Keerthy Raghavan, the ensemble’s visionary, curates thematic musical experiences that address pressing global issues such as racism and discrimination. Through their performances, Shruti Laya Bhedam seeks to educate, inspire, and unite audiences from diverse backgrounds, while also pushing the boundaries of musical expression. Shruti Laya Bhedam’s dedication to musical excellence and their unwavering commitment to social causes make them a truly remarkable ensemble. Their performances are a testament to the power of music to transcend cultural boundaries, inspire change, and bring people together.

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Upcoming Events

Tabla, Tea & South Indian Classical Music by Keerthy Ragahavan

Sunday, November 23, 3 PM

THIS SUNDAY! Join the always engaging and magnanimous musician and host Cassius Khan Music and Keerthy Raghavan as they take you on a musical journey while enjoying some refreshments. Keerthy is a percussionist and composer of percussion ensembles hailing from the quaint town of Gorur in India’s southern expanse. Don’t miss the first Global Tea performance on November 23!
Global Tea Series performances are by Pay-What-You-Can admission. Audience is encouraged to pay what they are able – there is no minimum or maximum amount – in order to keep the arts accessible for all. Payment will be collected at the door on the afternoon of the performance, and cash, credit and debit are accepted methods of payment.
 

14th Annual Mushtari Begum Festival of Indian Classical Music and Dance

October 4 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Presented by Cassius Khan and Amika Kushwaha

The 14th Annual Mushtari Begum Festival of Indian Classical Music and Dance returns to the Massey Theatre on October 4th with a celebration of the timeless forms of Indian Classical Music and Dance. The perfect show to kick off the performance season following this summer’s renovations.

This festival was started by New Westies Cassius Khan and Amika Kushwaha as a tribute to Khan’s late guru, the Ghazal Queen Mushtari Begum. Every year, Cassius and Amika would invite some of the finest Canadian and Indian artists to showcase their talents at this one-of-a-kind event. Music and dance hold no barriers, and you don’t need any prior knowledge to enjoy and be immersed in the performances.

Such will be the passion and enchantment they create, intoxicating the spirit with melodies and rhythms, that undoubtedly, your Ears will begin to see and the Eyes listen!

Shruti Laya Bhedam
Indian Classical Crossover

First in a series of garden concerts.


July 26th, 4 PM

Beaconsfield Community Garden


Entry: Free or by donation

Please contact: 604.874.1256

VASANTOTSAV - 2025 - NAAD SPRING FESTIVAL OF MUSIC & DANCE

NAAD YOUTH FESTIVAL –
Saturday, March 15, 2025 – 6:00 PM – Surrey Arts Centre
The “Artists of Tomorrow” showcase will highlight the immense talent of youth from various organizations in the fields of music and dance. This festival celebrates the creativity and skill of the next generation of artists.
RHYTHMIC REMEMBRANCE –
Friday, March 21, 2025 – 6:00 PM – Surrey Arts Centre
Immerse yourself in an extraordinary evening featuring renowned Canadian artists. This special performance will highlight unique forms of music and dance, with advanced students from Naad Arts Centre and other acclaimed artists coming together to showcase their skills and the legacy they carry from their traditions.
HASYA HANGAMA –
Friday, March 28, 2025 – 6:00 PM – Surrey Arts Centre
An evening of humorous poetry with award-winning poets from India and Canada, along with Bollywood music by renowned Bollywood singers supported by the Indian Standard Time Band.

For More Information or to Inquire About Sponsorship:
Please contact: 778.883.2627
naadarts2006@gmail.com

MELODIC PERCUSSION CONVERSATION

Globally renowned master performer
Tabla Ghazal Wizard, JUNO Nominated:

USTAD CASSIUS KHAN
with his Wife
AMIKA KUSHWAHA

Saturday, March 8, 2025 – 3:00 PM  to 4:30 PM

Bridges Enrich Lives Society
718 East 21th Avenue, (Fraser and 20th),
Vancouver, BC, V5V 1N3

For More Information or to Inquire About Sponsorship:
Please contact: 778.883.2627
naadarts2006@gmail.com

Karnatik Classical music is coming to Langley!

Bring your children to discover the magic of classical music.
Featuring local teenage musicians Satvik & Shravan

Musically Yours
Keerthy Raghavan
LayaPriya School of Performing Arts

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