Through the practice and performance of music that has its roots deep within Indian culture, the NUS Indian Instrumental Ensemble (IIE) provides an open and inclusive environment to stage cultural dialogues with a diverse range of genres across the world.
Since its founding in 1987, IIE has explored a variety of themes that form the basis of traditional Indian music ranging from the evolution of music in the Indians sub-continent to religion and socio-political dialogues in the South Asian region.
IIE is made up primarily of four musical sections – percussion, plucked strings, violin, keys and vocals – with members also proficient in other instruments such as the flute and ukulele. This range of instruments allows IIE to perform music that is representative of the ethnic diversity within India, from the Hindustani music of North India to the Carnatic music of South India. IIE continues to champion the traditional art form within the context of world music through grounding themselves in the pure rudiments of Indian music while experimenting and exploring with fusing the old and the new. By blending Eastern and Western instrumentation and influences, IIE hopes that a bold new sound can be brought forth that reflects the vibrant identity of modern Asian youth today.
Key Past Events
2023 | NUS Arts Festival, Inter/change, a collaboration with NUS Chinese Dance |
2022 | NUS Arts Festival, Bodhi – The Awakening |
2021 | Concert, Varnajalaam: Shades of Indian Music |
2019 | Boundless, Esplanade Recital Studio |
2018 | I Am, Esplanade Recital Studio |
2017 | 30th Anniversary Concert, The Raga Journal |
2016 | ExxonMobil Campus Concerts highlight, Made in India |
2014 | NUS Arts Festival, Chudar, a collaboration with NUS Indian Dance |
2014 | Annual concert, Yatra: A Journey of Man and Music |
Awards and achievements
2018 | Production of the Year for I Am, Tan Ean Kiam Arts Awards |