The undisputed tabla star of his generation, Zakir Hussain possesses a “virtuosity that is barely to be believed” (The Washington Post). For his legion of Cal Performances fans, Hussain returns with his dazzling Masters of Percussion program, a gathering of fellow musical heavyweights representing a myriad of cultures and traditions, from Indian classical music to jazz. The spirit of collaboration and exchange runs in Hussain’s veins—he began touring more than two decades ago in a duo with his late father and mentor, the legendary Ustad Allarakha, and today keeps that artist’s memory alive through these spirited concerts featuring the world’s finest percussionists. This year’s Masters of Percussion group features Hussain joined by Indian sarangi player (and son of legendary sarangi player Ustad Sultan Khan) Sabir Khan; Colombian-born jazz master Tupac Mantilla;  balafon, barra, djembe, and conga player Melissa Hié, and master of the dholak and tabla student of Hussain’s father Ustad Allarakha, Navin Sharma. 

This performance is made possible, in part, by an anonymous Patron Sponsor.