Kirtan (Devotional Singing) Performance at the Zen Center

Amrita will perform Kirtan at the Puget Sound Zen Center on November 12th at 7:30 PM. Admission is a suggested donation of $10 and all are welcome.

"World Kirtan is the singing of sacred songs from around the globe as well as the traditional sanskrit from the Hindu tradition," said bandleader, Carol Lutra-Johns. "We are bringing the World of sacred chants to the island, creating community, harmony and joyful self-expression celebrating the Divine within and without," she added.

"Interest in Kirtan around the globe, particularly within the yoga community, has be exploding," said percussionist and co-leader, Geoff Johns. "I think one of the reasons it is so popular is that it allows people to participate at many levels…some people just like to sit and listen; others like to get up and dance, but all are encouraged to sing."

"Kirtan is usually structured as a call and response," continued Carol. "I will sing a name or passage, and then the audience repeats it. The band meanwhile will be playing a groove that provides rhythm and a tonal center. It is quite powerful and everyone has a great time."

"It is also very improvisational," added Geoff. "We have a certain group of chants that we do, but they are different and fresh every time we play them."

Joining Carol and Geoff are Carla Decrona on response vocals, Larry Lawson playing the flutes, and Jason Everett on bass.