Jax Raaga celebrates 10 years with free concert

Prema Kumar announced to Historic City News reporters that the Indian music advocacy group, Jax Raaga, would be celebrating its 10th year of performances with a concert at the Student Union Auditorium of the University of North Florida.

“The experience mirrors the concerts from back home in India,” Kumar told reporters.

The event is free. Food will be available for nominal donations.

The performances will take place Saturday and Sunday, February 18th – 19th, from 9:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. The auditorium is located on the second level of the West Building.

According to the announcement, the 501(c )(3) non-profit organization was founded in 2002 by residents of St Augustine, Ponte Vedra Beach and Jacksonville; to create awareness and promote interest of the classical South Indian music style, Carnatic.

“Songs can last from 1 minute to longer than 20 minutes at times,” Kumar said.

Carnatic is a complex, but structured music style requiring strict discipline to follow in its pure form. Audience members will hear musicians perform pieces and display mastery of styles that date back centuries.

Many concerts and events such as this are held around the country, and it is a way for the Indian communities to stay in touch with and appreciate their culture. Visit JaxRaaga.org for more information.

Photo credits: © 2012 Historic City News contributed photograph by Prema Kumar