Chennai's music scene is experiencing a choral renaissance, and at its heart is The Indian Choral Ensemble (TICE). Led by the dynamic duo of Kalyani Nair and Karthik Manickavasagam, TICE is redefining the boundaries of choral music.
This weekend, TICE is set to captivate audiences with their groundbreaking performance, Ula. An audacious experiment in sound, the show will feature the ensemble's voices without the aid of amplification. This will be also an immersive experience as the performers will sing from amidst the crowd. Kalyani describes Ula as a vocal voyage, inviting listeners to embark on a sonic journey with the choir.
The performance will showcase TICE's original compositions alongside fresh interpretations of beloved film tracks. With over 40 voices harmonizing in perfect unity, the ensemble is set to deliver a raw and powerful musical experience. While not strictly acappella, the concert will be accompanied by a skilled five-piece band, adding subtle layers of instrumentation.
The five-piece band consists of, mallets (marimba/vibraphone) by Rahul Vanamali, flutes/sax by Nikhil, acoustic guitars by Chris Jason and Akshay Yesodharan and bass by Laxman Arvind.
Kalyani attributes the growing popularity of choral music to its unique ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. "I think choral music has the power to impact you," she explains. Because when the music comes directly from the human voice, it can amplify the impact, I feel. I can emote anything. It can act like a rhythm while also sustaining a long note," However, she also emphasizes the need for greater support for choral music in Chennai, including improved infrastructure for recording and performance.
Ula is a testament to TICE's innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of choral music. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to experience the magic of live choral performance.
Tickets start at INR 799.
August 3, 4 pm & 7.30 pm onward.
At Museum Theatre, Egmore.