Two leading artists committed to uniting the worlds of Indian classical and Western improvised music meet tonight on the Freight stage for a truly global conversation. Blending the exuberant, elegant music of Indian violinist Kala Ramnath and the rich Indian/jazz fusion of Bay Area saxophonist George Brooks, this show promises to be memorable.

An established saxophonist who's performed with everyone from Etta James to the Kronos Quartet, George also has a long-time fascination with Indian classical music that has led him on extended trips to India and to work with folks like tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain and sitar master Krishna Bhatt. George's original compositions combine graceful melodies with the rich harmonies of modern jazz and the driving rhythms of North India.

One of the most prominent young contemporary Hindustani violinists, Kala has played a vital role in bringing the instrument into the mainstream of Indian classical music. Born into a family of Indian violin luminaries, she specializes in the northern Indian style known as gayaki ang, in which the violin imitates vocal music. Combining complex, playful improvisation with rich lyricism, her violin playing is also characterized by its elegant tone.

Joining Kala and George for tonight's performance will be Frank Martin, piano and keyboards; Dewayne Pate, bass; Celso Alberti, drums; and Mayookh Bhaumik, tabla.