The connection from Indian dance to non-oriental music is an exciting but highly up-to-date project, based on its own dynamics. The production of `Dancing Ganesh´ set the foundation-stone for this synergy. Classical Indian dance is characterised by finely differentiated ornaments, which also exist in the melodic concept of Indian music. My particularly interest is experimenting with complex rhythmic components in connection with dance. The visualization of music by movement, dance and choreography is a less considered element in the field of jazz. Introducing this element in our artistic work is the intention of this project.
On the DVD the famous Kathak dancer Shama Bhate introduces us to the aesthetics of Indian dance performed in a new and unusual environment. Together with Ravi Chary she is one of the most well-known artist in classical Indian music, and together with Trilok Gurtu they toured Europe in the late 1980s.
Don Thompson, a well-known jazz musician from Toronto (who has worked with Jim Hall, John Abercrombie, Dave Holland, George Shearing, Rob McConnell, Kenny Wheeler, John Handy and many others) writes: `… Manfred has always had the unique ability to assemble the most unusual groups of musicians and make beautiful music. This project, combining Indian Music and European Jazz has been in his mind for a long time. This video is a great tribute to his creativity as a musician, composer and producer.´
A responsive ensemble, complex grooves and inspiring solos as well as Shama Bhate’s fascinating dancing make this live recording of the May 2006 concert a truly magnificent audiovisual experience.
