The Edmonton Raga-Mala Music Society welcomed sarod virtuoso Amjad Ali Khan and his sons to the Winspear Centre for a recital on March 10. For those unfamiliar with Indian classical music, this was a first-class introduction to the fretless, plucked instrument. For both the familiar and unfamiliar, this was an opportunity to see one of the superstars of the Indian classical tradition.

The first half of the evening featured Khan alone flanked by tabla players on each side of the stage. Following the intermission, the audience was treated to a lengthy performance by Khan’s two sons, Amaan Ali Khan and Ayaan Ali Khan. Each displayed dazzling technique as they took turns with solos, all supported by the tablas. The nearly three hour concert concluded with the return of Khan to the stage for a gorgeous short solo piece, followed by all three sarod players finishing the evening together.

The elder Khan guided the final piece along as the old master, trading call and response solos with his sons. The younger players showed remarkable speed and dexterity with each complex passage, impressive as any guitar hero. Their father played with the effortless technique, grace and musicality one would expect from a legendary classical musician.

The next Raga-Mala Society concert is Carnatic Violin, on April 1 at Muttart Hall. For more information, visit www.edmontonragamala.ab.ca.