Date:10/02/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/02/10/stories/2006021004060200.htm

Karnataka - Bangalore

An `audiovisual treat' for Bangaloreans

Staff Reporter

Louis Banks

Bangalore: To commemorate 50 years of its presence in India, Siemens will organise "Golden Footprints" - a musical journey. It is a melange of music, song and dance by German and Indian musicians to be held at the Ambedkar Bhavan here on Friday.

The "East meets West" fusion event has brought together a 13-member ensemble of Jazz musicians from Germany and the Indian King of Jazz Louis Banks and his seven-member team. The event will also have dance performances choreographed by Terence Lewis. "It is a privilege to be invited by Siemens to be part of the historic musical event. It is an event that will showcase the best talents in Germany and India. I am proud to be part of the event," Mr. Banks said. The event will feature Big Band style of music that sets the feet tapping. Having its origins in the 1930s, it swept the world and changed the musical style of almost all countries.

Eberhard Stockmann, leader of the German ensemble, said he is proud to be a representative of Western music. "It is the first time that we are performing in India. I am proud of the production. It is the first musical event that has brought together 13 horns on one stage," he said.

Mr. Lewis, choreographer of Bollywood movies such as Lagaan and Naach, said the event is an "audiovisual treat" that will cater to a huge spectrum of audience.