Djembe X Tabla: A Metamorphosis of African & Indian Rhythms

Drumming since 13, Kelvin Kew studied at the Los Angeles Music Academy in 2003 and later joined Mamady Keïta's Tam Tam Mandingue Djembe Academy (TTMDA) in 2008. Kelvin rose through the ranks to become Mamady's trusted assistant as Vice President of TTMDA in 2013. 

Today, besides conducting regular classes in his home country in Singapore, Kelvin also leads TTMDA worldwide to advocate djembe rhythms and teaching pedagogies. 

Born on 18 Nov 1976, in Pune, India, Nawaz Mirajkar hails from an illustrious lineage of musicians. At the tender age of seven, Nawaz began his musical journey under the tutelage of his father, Ustad Mohammad Hanif Khan Mirajkar.

In 1988, Nawaz’s aptitude garnered national recognition when he was awarded a national scholarship by the Government of India’s Centre or Cultural Resources and Training. He graduated with the esteemed Tabla Visharad degree (First Class) from Akhil Bhartiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal in 1994.

In 1996, Nawaz joined the Temple of Fine Arts, Singapore as Head of Percussion. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member at the Music Faculty of the School of the Arts (SOTA). In 2020, he assumed the esteemed position of Artistic Director (Indian Instrumental Ensemble) at the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Nawaz also raises awareness on traditional Indian music across diverse demographics in Singapore. His artistic philosophy revolves around the seamless fusion of classical integrity, meticulous technique, and unrestrained creativity, unlocking the gateway to unparalleled artistic excellence.

While deeply rooted in classical training, Nawaz also ventures into the realm of contemporary fusion music. Collaborating with globally renowned artists, he actively represents Singapore on international arts stage. In the cosmopolitan tapestry of Singapore, Nawaz draws inspiration from Western, Oriental, and Indian elements. Nawaz aspires to elevate the art of tabla and percussion to unprecedented heights. His mission extends beyond preserving tradition; he seeks to redefine it by seamlessly integrating innovation. With the goal of creating a groundbreaking musical genre, Nawaz aims to fuse Asia's rich musical heritage with a modern edge, capturing the hearts of both the contemporary youth and seasoned traditionalists.

Nawaz is honoured and humbled to continuously be in the pursuit of musical excellence.