University News Last updated 28 November
Former Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Chair in Indian Studies Dr Radhika Balakrishnan returned to RBC recently to commence a four-week residency. The visit comes on the back of Radhika’s remote work with students on the Language of Music module.
Hear from Radhika, as she shares her experiences of being back at RBC and what it means to her.
What is the purpose of the residency?
My residency started on Monday 17 November and it marks the reintroduction of Indian music to the Conservatoire’s curriculum, now offered to third- and fourth-year BMus and BMus Jazz students through the Language of Music module.
Students can explore raga-based improvisation and tala systems, and I am also performing with the RBC India Ensemble, the Indo-Jazz Ensemble and contributing to Open Day events.
A key part of this residency is community outreach, including work with St Benedict’s Primary School, reflecting my belief in music as a language of cultural connection.
What activities are you involved in?
I have been undertaking teaching and academic work, such as one-to-one lessons with students, and taking on the final three classes of Indian music. I also ran an Indian cinema session, examining the relationship between music, sound and storytelling.
In terms of performance and outreach, I will be at performances with the RBC India Ensemble and Indo-Jazz Ensemble at the Open Day on Thursday 4 December, and a session with St Benedict’s Primary School on Friday 5 December.
I will also perform at the Milan, Coming Together concert with the India Ensemble and the Jazz Gala at Eastside Jazz Club.
What have been the highlights of your visit so far?
The RBC India Ensemble performed at the EDU-EX Conference hosted by the Consulate General of India in Birmingham. The ensemble was warmly appreciated, with members Andrey Fjelstad, Benji Filmer, Sam Nolan and I receiving a certificate of commendation from the Consul General of India Dr Venkatachalam Murugan.
How does it feel to be back at RBC?
It genuinely feels like coming back to my home away from home. When I first arrived as the first-ever Indian Council for Cultural Relations Chair, I wasn’t sure how Indian classical music would be received. I found extraordinary curiosity and openness. Students across departments embraced raga and tala, weaving Indian musical ideas into their own practice.
It is deeply meaningful to return now, at a moment when Indian music has officially entered the curriculum. It reflects RBC’s commitment to cultural diversity and honours the collaborative work between the Conservatoire and the wider Birmingham community. RBC is a place where global music traditions meet, converse and thrive, and I am honoured to contribute once again to that journey. Being here reaffirms my belief in music as a powerful bridge between cultures.