In a remarkable achievement that underscores the universal power of music, 71-year-old Indian-American musician Chandrika Tandon has secured her first Grammy Award for Best New Age Album with her latest work, “Triveni.” This accolade not only highlights Tandon’s exceptional talent but also emphasizes music’s profound ability to bring joy and light to audiences worldwide.
“Triveni,” a Sanskrit term meaning “confluence of three,” is a collaborative masterpiece featuring Grammy-winning South African flutist Wouter Kellerman and Japanese-American cellist Eru Matsumoto. The album seamlessly blends ancient mantras with the soothing sounds of flute and cello, creating a healing musical experience that transcends cultural boundaries. Tandon describes the project as “a true confluence of three artistic spirits united in a higher purpose of music for healing.”
This Grammy win marks Tandon’s second nomination and first victory. She was previously nominated in 2011 for her album “Soul Call,” which melded Carnatic, Hindustani, and Western influences. Her musical journey is deeply rooted in her early life in Chennai, India, where she was born into a family that cherished music. Her mother was a musician, and these early influences ignited Tandon’s passion for the art form.
Before fully immersing herself in music, Tandon had an illustrious career in business. She became the first Indian-American woman to be elected partner at McKinsey & Company and later founded Tandon Capital Associates. Despite her corporate success, Tandon’s passion for music remained a constant, leading her to pursue formal training in Hindustani, Carnatic, and Western traditions. This diverse training is evident in her unique sound, which resonates with a global audience.
Beyond her musical and business endeavors, Tandon is a dedicated philanthropist. In 2015, she and her husband donated $100 million to the NYU Polytechnic School of Engineering, which was subsequently renamed the NYU Tandon School of Engineering in their honor. She has also served as a trustee for New York University, NYU Langone Health, and the American India Foundation, among others. Her philanthropic efforts reflect her commitment to education, arts, and community development.
Tandon’s musical repertoire is both diverse and profound. Her previous albums include “Soul March,” inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s Salt March of 1930, and “Shivoham – The Quest,” which merges Sanskrit prayer with English verses, reflecting her personal spiritual journey. Each of her works aims to transcend musical boundaries and convey messages of peace, unity, and healing.
Reflecting on her Grammy win, Tandon expressed gratitude and emphasized the album’s mission to spread healing energy globally. “These mantras hold profound meaning, recognizing our inner fullness – ancient words with vibrations far beyond our comprehension. This recognition will allow more people to experience their own healing power,” she stated.
Tandon’s journey from a successful business leader to a Grammy-winning musician exemplifies the transformative power of following one’s passion. Her dedication to her craft and her belief in music’s ability to bring joy and light serve as an inspiration to many. As she continues to explore new musical horizons, Tandon remains a testament to the idea that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams and make a meaningful impact on the world.
In a world often divided by differences, Chandrika Tandon’s “Triveni” stands as a harmonious blend of cultures, traditions, and sounds, reminding us all of the unifying power of music.
