Conversation with Percussionist V.R. Venkataraman

Vinod Venkataraman in Conversation with Joseph Miller (Live Event)
Saturday, April 5th, 2025
2:00 – 3:30 pm (PDT) In person and Live Webcast*
Institute of World Culture, Concord Hall, 1407 Chapala Street, Santa Barbara
V.R. Venkataraman, Master Percussionist and Joseph Miller

Join us for a live interview with Vinod Venkataraman (V.R.), Artistic Director of The Music Circle in Los Angeles, is a rare blend of artistic and leadership ability.  Born into a South Indian family with a rich musical ancestry, he studied the violin as a youth, then under the tutelage of one of the greatest exponents of the mridangam became a master of this ancient and complex percussion instrument.  V.R. has taught music and applied mathematics at San Diego State University, and has collaborated and travelled with some of the greatest artists of our times, from Zakir Hussain to George Harrison, bringing his own blend of music to audiences worldwide.  It is said that hebelieves in the philosophy of heart, mind, body and soul and that music is the food for the soul.  He is passionate about imparting his knowledge of culture, music and math through the age-old tradition of transmission from guru to disciple.  V.R. is also a retired physician, and is currently executive chef at Appu’s Turmeric Café in Long Beach.

Joseph Miller is a freelance writer, former radio host, and a classical musician with a universal spirit and love of wisdom.

 *Live webcast at 2:00 pm (PDT) @ https://www.youtube.com/@iwcinsantabarbara/streams
More information: http://www.worldculture.org