Known for blending Indian classical rhythms with contemporary tunes, percussionist and composer Trilok Gurtu is all set to bring his music to Bengaluru this weekend. The Germany-based artist is on an exclusive India tour to mark five decades of his musical journey. “The shows in India are going to be unique,” says Trilok over a conversation from Germany. “They’re going to be very unlike anything my fans have heard from me before. The music and the musicians will be entirely new. Usually, I perform compositions tailored to Indian audiences, but this time, I’m taking a fresh approach,” says the artist who is known for his collaborations with musicians Jan Garbarek, John McLaughlin, Pat Metheny, and the late Zakir Hussain.
While his love for India has Trilok excited, he says performing here is not always easy. “India is where I met my guru, Ranjeeth Maharaj. This is where I studied with my mother and I’ve become who I am because of that so I look forward to playing in India. But sometimes it’s hard because people have not understood my music. They all tell me that it’s way ahead, but I’m excited about sharing my music here,” he says of the concert that is being brought to India by Art Hub Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to the promotion and conservation of classical performing arts and artists globally. Trilok will be performing with his European ensemble: Carlo Cantini (violin), Rolland Cabezas (guitar), Jonathan Ihelnfield (bass guitar), and Ryan Carniaux (trumpet).
Trilok Gurtu
His concert aside, I ask if Trilok is experimenting with any new instruments, rhythms, or musical techniques of late. “I experiment a lot with water, sounds, buckets, and new instruments which I come up with. Fans will hear my new compositions at the concert,” he says, adding that he is now working on tracks that combine Indian folk with African rhythm and European orchestration.
Given the rise of digital music and short-form content, does Trilok feel live performances have taken on new importance? “I think it’s deteriorating. Young musicians can barely play for a 90-minute show, and keep playing the same songs. Digital interventions should make your life easy,” says Trilok, who enjoys listening to African music.
The Bengaluru concert is on October 26 at 6.30 pm at Prestige Centre for Performing Arts. Tickets on in.bookmyshow.com
Published – October 23, 2025 11:06 am IST
