Early Training and Foundation (1985 – 2024):
Atish Mukhopadhyay began his journey in North Indian Classical Music in 1985, receiving rigorous training under world-renowned maestros such as Professor Dhyanesh Khan, Ustad Aashish Khan, Vidushee Ameena Perera, and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. He is a proud torchbearer of the renowned Maihar Seniya Gharana of the legendary Ustad Allauddin Khan, a musical lineage rooted in 16th-century India. Over nearly four decades, he mastered the nuances and traditions of this rich musical heritage, developing exceptional proficiency on the majestic and rare instrument, the Sarode.
International Performances and Recognition (2005 – Present):
Starting in 2005, Atish’s career as a performer took him to the global stage, where he delivered over 600 solo Sarode concerts across India, Canada, the USA, Russia, Bangladesh, Uzbekistan, and beyond. Hisperformances, characterised by their depth and technical excellence, earned him widespread acclaim and invitations to participate in numerous prestigious international music festivals. In 2009, his music album ‘The Majestic Seniya Sarode’ was released in India by ‘Raga Music’.
Educational Contributions (2012 – 2023):
In 2012, Atish joined the Moscow Tchaikovsky State Music Conservatory as a Music Educator, Syllabus Designer, and Course Supervisor. Over 11 years, he developed a comprehensive curriculum for North Indian Classical music, teaching both instrumental and vocal disciplines. His work at the conservatory was pivotal in establishing a thriving program that continues to flourish. As a founding member, music mentor, and curriculum planner, Atish played a crucial role in the growth of the Aashish Khan School of World Music in India since 2015. He prepared students for regular performances, fostering both their technical skills and confidence.
Master Classes and Global Outreach (2008 – Present):
Atish has conducted over 500 lecture demonstrations and master classes at prestigious institutions worldwide. Notable among them includes:
* Royal Conservatory of Music, Toronto, Canada.
* University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.
* Saint Petersburg Korsakov Music Conservatory, St. Petersburg, Russia.
* York University, Toronto, Canada.
His commitment to sharing his knowledge and fostering musical understanding has made a significant impact on the students and audiences alike.
Awards and Recognition:
Atish’s contributions to music have been recognized with several awards which includes:
* Nikolai Rubinstein Medal from the Moscow Tchaikovsky State Music Conservatory in 2022 for outstanding contributions to cultural cooperation between India and Russia.
* Surmani Title conferred by the Sur Singar Samsad, Mumbai, India in January, 2007.
* Sangeet Sadhak conferred by Gandhi Hindustani Sahitya Sabha, New Delhi in January 2006.
* Empanelled musician with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Ministry of External Affairs, Govt. of India.
* Empanelled as “multi-talented teacher cum performer” with ICCR, in the tenure 2014-2018.
Social Impact and Volunteering (2020 – 2021):
In addition to his contributions to music and education, Atish has utilized the therapeutic essence of Indian Classical Music to foster social impact. In 2021, he volunteered for the Children of War: Invisible Wounds project in Ukraine, funded by the European Union and the Ukrainian Psychiatric Association. As part of the initiative, he conducted webinars for rehabilitation center volunteers and produced a therapeutic music CD, which was distributed to children in conflict zones to aid their healing and recovery.
Current Focus and Future Goals:
Atish Mukhopadhyay continues to perform, teach, and contribute to the global music community. He remains committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians while expanding his artistic collaborations across different musical traditions worldwide. His future endeavours include furthering the reach of North Indian Classical Music through innovative teaching methodologies, international performances, and cultural exchanges.