Richard Russell Teacher

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About Richard Russell Teacher

Richard Russell A disciple of world-renowned sarode master Ali Akbar Khan, Richard Russell spent many years studying the vocal and instrumental styles of Hindustani classical music. After earning his BA in music composition, he attended the Ali Akbar College of Music in San Rafael, Calif., while simultaneously earning his MA from Antioch University with a concentration in Indian music. He is a prolific composer, performer, recording artist and teacher dedicated to the philosophy that sacred music has a unique potential to open the heart, stir the soul and raise the level of peace and joy in our world. Recognized as one of the early pioneers of east/west fusion, he is both a respected innovator and sought-after collaborator in the field of world music.Richard has performed with a number of world-class musicians including Pankaj Mishra, Indradeep Ghosh, Salar Nader, Benjy Wertheimer, Joël Dilley, Matthew Montfort, Pranesh Khan and Hom Nath Upadhyaya, among others. As the primary vocalist, instrumentalist and composer he offers kirtan, raga and world music events in collaboration with a variety of talented musical friends. Based in Everett, Washington, just north of Seattle, Russell offers concerts, workshops and private lessons as well. Kirtan – or call and response chant – is a spiritual practice from India that enables us to connect to the divine sources that are around, and inside, each of us. It is a form of bhakti (devotional) yoga where the repetition of the sacred names guides us to an immersion in the perfection of love. There is no exact formula or belief to follow, only the understanding that when we sing these divine love songs together, it is a powerful tool for creating a world of greater peace, love and conscious co-evolution. Blending the Sanskrit words shanti (peace) and kara (to do), Shantikar offers music that is both meditative and uplifting. Drawing on the ancient tradition of mantra and the evocative melodies and rhythms of India, Shantikar creat