Photo by Adrien H. Tillmann

RAJAS, named after the Sanskrit term that defines the human quality that compels us to act and create, combines improvisation with various musical approaches. Led by University of Maryland anthropology and French language graduate Rajna Swaminathan ’13, RAJAS blends jazz with South Asian harmony and rhythm to create a unique sound. With the group’s own compositions serving merely as points of departure, the ensemble’s collaborative process centers around mutuality and multiplicity. On stage you will hear vocals, the percussive mrudangam, guitar, bass, piano, tenor saxophone and trumpet.

While visiting The Clarice, RAJAS will work closely with students in the UMD School of Music and the Asian American studies program on campus. Ensemble members will also host a Concert in the Quad for on-campus student residents in the College Park Scholars program.