Young artists get a platform to showcase talents
IT’S IMPERATIVE that Durbanites come out to support local artists who just want to celebrate and share music.
That’s the word of veteran artist, Pravesh Sunker, who hosts the Pravesh Sunker and Rising Stars concert at Sibaya’s Izulu Theatre next month.
His “Rising Stars” include six Kwazulu-natal singers, who have never had a major platform to share their talent with other music lovers.
“When a venue is sold out, they become more confident and feel they can grow to further heights,” Sunker said.
The radio jock has been punting local musicians on his “Deshvani” (voice of the country) show on community radio station Hindvani.
“We put their posters out and advertise on social media and people react to this, which builds them up as artists and encourages them to do better,” he said.
Sunker’s 17-year-old son, Nirav, is among the youngest active keyboard players in a Durban band, often at the forefront of commercial shows. He started learning and playing music at 5 and, next month, will support the new artists with music backing.
“I would love people to come and support this show, especially me being a youngster and backing up six new singing artists. Seeing a big crowd at the venue will make us youngsters feel appreciated and this will inspire and motivate us to do better,” he said.
The six “Rising Stars” include 17-year-old Avijay Harichund, Ashlin Govender, Vivesh Singh, Nishan Ramkissoon, Darren Reddy, and Ishwar Suraj.
Veteran singers and musicians, including the Ajesh Kumar Showband, will entertain the crowd with a mix of new Bollywood dance, golden oldies, chutney and bhangra music.
The Pravesh Sunker and Rising Stars show takes place on the evening of September 15, at Sibaya Casino’s Izulu Theatre. Tickets R120 each through Computicket.