Background
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Ramya Shankar is an International artist, dynamic and versatile World/Jazz singer, rooted in the rich traditions of Carnatic music. Born into a family of musicians, she was introduced to the enchanting world of music at the tender age of 4. Her journey began with rigorous training in Carnatic vocal music under the guidance of eminent gurus, where she honed her classical prowess and developed a deep understanding of intricate ragas and talas. She received rigorous training under renowned gurus.
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As her passion for music grew, Ramya embarked on a quest to explore diverse musical genres and embrace innovation. Fascinated by the expressive nature of jazz, she delved into the world of improvisation and harmony, after attending the California Jazz Conservatory and later on the Stanford Jazz program learning under renowned jazz vocalist/pianist Dena DeRose, blending it seamlessly with her Carnatic roots. This fusion of traditional and contemporary styles became the hallmark of her unique and soul-stirring performances. Ramya is also a member of the Recording Academy and a mentor at Grammy U providing mentorship to upcoming artists.
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Ramya Shankar is not only an accomplished vocalist but also a talented music composer and producer. With her deep understanding of music across various genres, she has released several albums that showcase her innovative approach to sound. Blending traditional influences with contemporary styles, Ramya’s compositions reflect her unique artistic vision, exploring themes of emotion, consciousness, and the human experience. Her albums have resonated with a global audience, further establishing her as a versatile and impactful figure in the music industry.​
Vision
CONSCIOUSNESS THROUGH MUSIC
Ramya Shankar, an international inspirational artist, has earned her reputation as a sought-after vocalist with a haunting and captivating voice. With 25 years of vocal training rooted in traditional Indian classical music, jazz, and a passion for meditative sounds, her music transcends genres. Ramya’s work is a pure expression of soul, aiming to articulate intangible concepts such as the unconscious, the self, and the human experience. Through simple arrangements and subtle variations, she creates a unique creative language that explores the emotional depth of sound. Her music touches on a range of emotions, from grief and love to relationships and courage. Her powerful Instagram videos have gone viral with millions of views, resonating with a global audience and offering a space for listeners to connect with what they've always known but never quite seen. With her vision of "Consciousness through Music," Ramya continues to move and inspire, inviting listeners to experience the profound depths of their own emotions.
Collaborations
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Throughout her career, Ramya has had the privilege of collaborating with distinguished musicians and Grammy winning artists including P.A. Deepak, who she frequently collaborates with (who is renowned as A.R. Rahman's sound engineer), french harp player Viviane Chaix, UK based guitarist Owen Gurry.
Additionally, her collaborations with veteran musicians and imminent Bay Area jazz musicians such as Grammy nominated veteran bassist Peter Barshay, pianist Frank Martin have added further recognition to her cross over musical career. She has also collaborated with Carnatic Jazz Saxophonist Prasant Radhakrishanan, Sarod Maestro Souryadeep Bhattacharya and many more carnatic musicians over the course of her career.
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Music Educator
Ramya Shankar is the Founder and Artistic Director of Mukti Music, a music organization dedicated to fostering connections through the transformative power of sound. With a passion for music education and community building, Ramya has created a space where individuals of all ages can explore their creativity and deepen their connection to music. Mukti Music offers a range of courses and workshops that blend traditional and contemporary music, helping students of all levels nurture their musical talents and emotional expression. A key feature of the school is the Raga Monsters program, a world music initiative for children. This unique curriculum allows young learners to thrive by exploring diverse musical traditions, fostering creativity, cultural awareness, and self-expression in an engaging and fun environment. At Mukti Music, students are invited to join a community where music becomes a path to self-discovery, connection, and growth.
