Indian classical music is passed from generation to generation, from master to disciple, as a living oral tradition. The music combines the classicism of traditional repertoire, fixed melodic forms, and precise intonation, with improvisation and spontaneous creation.   Indian classical music is a meeting of Raga (melody) and Tala (rhythm).  Raga means, “to color the mind,” and traditionally, each raga, or melodic landscape, is associated with a time of day, a season or a quality of light.  Tala, is rhythm…time, defined and elaborated in rhythmic cycles. Evolved over centuries from music performed in temples and courts, present day Indian classical music is a true 'chamber music.'

A pioneering artist in cross-cultural collaborative music, Steve Gorn has performed Indian Classical Music and new American Music on the bansuri bamboo flute, soprano saxophone and clarinet in concerts and festivals throughout the world.