When Samuel Salsbury first heard the sarangi, he vowed to do whatever it took to learn the ancient stringed instrument, even traveling to India to study first-hand with masters. This journey has resulted in the release of the new album, “The Market of Kashi,” a collaboration with musician and studio producer Mike Hovancsek.
It features Salsbury, a classically trained musician, teacher and healer, on the violin and sarangi, and Hovancsek on the koto, guitar, sitar, cello, drums and piano, among a host of other instruments.
The 13-track album tells a story of self-realization and is intended to be listened to in sequence. Several tracks highlight the haunting sound of the sarangi, which is traditionally used in North Indian classical music; it is even said at times to resemble the human voice.
An album release party will take place this Saturday, Nov. 4 at Pure Intentions Wheatgrass & School of Energy, 156 W. North St. The event begins with a 7 p.m. reception; a multimedia performance starts at 8 p.m. A second CD Release Party will be held in Cleveland on Nov. 24.
Whether through traditional musical performances at clubs and cafes, or playing kirtan chants at national yoga festivals, Salsbury finds meaning in connecting with other people through the sacred. Music is just one of his many spiritual outlets, as Salsbury also is a designer and teacher, offering healing meditative and music workshops.
His musical path has taken him from lead guitarist in a pre-teen rock band to studies in classical violin at the Cleveland Institute of Music to recent lessons on the sarangi in India.
“The Market of Kashi” is available for purchase digitally or physically on his new website, samuelsalsburymusic.com. Visit his page for more on his story, his offerings and how to connect with him for lectures, performances and other opportunities.
