The Vamshika Quintet is one of Singapore’s first Indian contemporary flute ensembles, led by Niranjan Pandian. Comprising five accomplished flautists, the ensemble explores five-part writing to present Indian classical music through the rich timbres of Indian bamboo flutes such as the Bansuri and Venu.
Rooted in the ancient tradition of collective flute performance, The Vamshika Quintet reimagines this communal practice for the modern stage. By blending traditional Indian musical elements with harmonic progressions and contemporary forms, the ensemble strives to bring the rich repertoire of Indian classical music—as well as the wonders of the Indian bamboo flutes—to audiences across the region.
Past Productions | Collaborations
Venu Nadam: A Symphonic Confluence
23rd March 2024 | 7.30 pm | National Library Black Box
Presented by Brahmastra Arts House, Venu Nadam,a sold out concert, captivated audiences on 23rd March 2024 at the NLB Drama Center Black Box with its rich display of the Indian bamboo flute's expressive and intercultural potential. The concert marked the return of the Vamshika Quintet—Singapore’s pioneering flute ensemble—performing seven original works by renowned composer Vidwan Amith Nadig, under the elegant direction of Dr. Ghanavenothan Retnam.
The Quintet—featuring Niranjan Pandian, Raghavendran Rajasekharan, Vishnu Veluri, Bian Tong, and Logindran Govindarasu—delivered refined ensemble work, setting the stage for guest soloists Jonathan Tan (Dizi), Rachel Ho (Western flute), and Samuel Phua (Saxophone) to enrich the sonic tapestry. Supporting artists Lazar Sebastian (Violin), Lalit Kumar Ganesh (Tabla), and Jayagowtham Annadurai (Mridangam) added rhythmic and melodic depth.
Preceded by a sold-out workshop by Vidwan Amith Nadig, Venu Nadam reaffirmed Brahmastra’s mission of bridging cultures through music. Supported by the National Arts Council (Singapore) and sponsored by Agrocorp International and Swaraanubhuti, the concert was a resounding celebration of artistic unity.
Venu Nadam: The Story Of Its Origin
8 January 2022 | 7:30 PM | Stamford Arts Centre
Organised by Brahmastra and supported by the National Arts Council (Singapore), Venu Nadam brought together some of Singapore’s finest flautists under the collective banner of The Vamshika Quintet, in a powerful celebration of the bamboo flute and its enduring sonic legacy.
The concert highlighted the Quintet’s intimate relationship with the Indian bamboo flute, presenting a series of vibrant arrangements rooted in Indian classical traditions. The ensemble was beautifully accompanied by Lazar T. Sebastian on the Carnatic violin and Viknash Balakrishnan on the Mridangam, adding rhythmic and melodic depth to the performance.
A special feature of the evening was the inclusion of guest musicians Rit Xu (Flute) and Jacky Ng (Suona), who infused the concert with fresh intercultural layers, showcasing the versatility of wind instruments across traditions.
The musical direction was shaped by two esteemed artists: Vidwan Amit Nadig as Music Advisor, and Vidwan Dr. Ghanavenothan Retnam as Conductor, whose guidance elevated the evening’s programme into an experience of artistic finesse and collaboration.
Held at the Stamford Arts Centre, the concert was met with enthusiasm from an appreciative audience, further cementing Brahmastra’s role in nurturing cross-cultural music experiences in Singapore.