Indian Classical Inspired
Made in nyc
“Akshara creates space for evocative melodic exploration among mathematically elegant South Indian rhythms”
About the Ensemble
Akshara is a collective of musicians exploring the rhythmic and melodic depth of Carnatic music in conversation with other musical traditions. The ensemble brings together artists from diverse backgrounds—Carnatic, Hindustani, Western Classical, Jazz and Folk—each contributing their own voice to a sound that’s rooted in tradition but shaped by personal experience.
Led by composer and mridangam artist Bala Skandan, Akshara has featured some of New York’s most versatile musicians, including two Grammy nominees. In 2015, our composition Mohana Blues received the Independent Music Award for Best World Traditional Song.
Our work reinterprets classical Carnatic Ragas like Kamboji, Mohana, Gambira Natai, and Shanmugapriya—each piece a result of shared curiosity, conversation, and a willingness to keep discovering.
Live Performances
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Drom, NYC
In Time Album Release Party
2017
After nearly a decade of exploration and a successful Indiegogo campaign, we released our debut album In Time with a live performance at Drom in New York City—made possible by the support of a community that believed in the music and its mission.
The album captures the spirit of Akshara: rooted in the complexity of Carnatic tradition, shaped by collaboration, and carried by those who continue to value presence, creativity, and connection in a fast-moving world.
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Lincoln Center, David Geffen Hall
globalFEST
2025
Performing at globalFEST 2025 at the Wu Tsai Theater in Lincoln Center was more than an honor—it was a moment of reflection, celebration, and forward motion. For us, this stage represented an opportunity to share Akshara’s evolving voice with a wider, global audience.
At globalFEST, we invited the audience not just to hear the music, but to feel its layers: structured yet spontaneous, grounded in tradition yet constantly stretching into new territory. We’re grateful to have been part of a festival that embraces the power of musical curiosity and cultural connection.
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Brooklyn, NY
Jalopy Theater
2018
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Greenwich, CT
India Cultural Center (ICC)
2018
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La Mama’s Ellen Stewart Theater, NY
Drive East Festival
2016
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