Stevin McNamara

Sacred Dance Of Shiva - Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Mantra by Stevin McNamara

A fresh and inspiring version of this ancient Mantra in an East West fusion style - featuring all acoustic instruments . Nylon string guitar - 12 string guitar- Bass - Stevin McNamara. Glorious vocals by the renowned Indian classical vocalist,Mala Ganguly - Drums and percussion by Christo Pellani. Gayatri Devi is an incarnation of Saraswati Devi, consort of Lord Brahma, symbolising the "shakti" (strength) and "dev" (quality) of Knowledge, Purity and Virtue. Saraswati Devi is held to be the patronness of the Arts, being a poet and musician, as well as skillful composer. In the form of Gayatri Devi, with the blessings of Lord Brahma, she is believed to have given the four Vedas to mankind. Mantra: Aum Bhur Bhuvah Swah, Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi, Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat ॐ भूर्भुव: स्व: तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं । भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि, धीयो यो न: प्रचोदयात् ।। A basic translation can be given as... Oh God, the Protector, the basis of all life, Who is self-existent, Who is free from all pains and Whose contact frees the soul from all troubles, Who pervades the Universe and sustains all, the Creator and Energizer of the whole Universe, the Giver of happiness, Who is worthy of acceptance, the most excellent, Who is Pure and the Purifier of all, let us embrace that very God, so that He may direct our mental faculties in the right direction. The Gayatri mantra is one of the oldest and most powerful of Sanskrit mantras. It is believed that by chanting the Gayatri mantra and firmly establishing it in the mind, if you carry on your life and do the work that is ordained for you, your life will be full of happiness. The word "Gayatri" itself explains the reason for the existence of this mantra. It has its origin in the Sanskrit phrase Gayantam Triyate iti, and refers to that mantra which rescues the chanter from all adverse situations that may lead to mortality. Goddess Gayatri is also called "Veda-Mata" or the Mother of the Vedas - Rig, Yajur, Saam and Atharva - because it is the very basis of the Vedas. It is the basis, the reality behind the experienced and the cognized universe. The Gayatri mantra is composed of a metre consisting of 24 syllables - generally arranged in a triplet of eight syllables each. Therefore, this particular meter (tripadhi) is also known as the Gayatri Meter or "Gayatri Chhanda."

from the album : Savasana Yoga Music: Healing Guitar for Massage, Sleep & Yoga Nidra Nov 2016. The full program of twenty musical pieces is over two hours long and is selected from Stevin’s favorite compositions from the last 15 years, along with several unreleased compositions, presented in a new and unique form, and accompanied by beautiful, healing beds of sound created by renowned sound healer and master drummer Christo Pellani. This organic music takes us into peaceful and relaxing spaces - a musical bridge into the dream state and beyond, leaving us with the feeling of rest in nature and connecting us to a higher state of awareness. The combination of all-natural, acoustic and non-computerized sound creates a fresh and deep musical landscape for relaxation, savasana, yoga nidra, meditation, contemplation, restful sleep and more. Most pieces are based on traditional Indian ragas (“that which colors the mind") in the Alap style -- where melody is explored without rhythm, although some have a natural rhythm — but they are performed in a way that is easily accessed by the western ear.

With this, his eighth solo album, Savasana Yoga Music, Stevin McNamara continues his musical journey, inspired by the classical music of North India and the ancient sound traditions of the Vedic yogis. The full program of twenty musical pieces is over two hours long and is selected from Stevin’s favorite compositions from the last 15 years, along with several unreleased compositions, presented in a new and unique form, and accompanied by beautiful, healing beds of sound created by renowned sound healer and master drummer Christo Pellani. This organic music takes us into peaceful and relaxing spaces - a musical bridge into the dream state and beyond, leaving us with the feeling of rest in nature and connecting us to a higher state of awareness. The combination of all-natural, acoustic and non-computerized sound creates a fresh and deep musical landscape for relaxation, savasana, yoga nidra, meditation, contemplation, restful sleep and more. Most pieces are based on traditional Indian ragas (“that which colors the mind") in the Alap style -- where melody is explored without rhythm, although some have a natural rhythm — but they are performed in a way that is easily accessed by the western ear.

With this, his eighth solo album, Savasana Yoga Music, Stevin McNamara continues his musical journey, inspired by the classical music of North India and the ancient sound traditions of the Vedic yogis. The full program of twenty musical pieces is over two hours long and is selected from Stevin’s favorite compositions from the last 15 years, along with several unreleased compositions, presented in a new and unique form, and accompanied by beautiful, healing beds of sound created by renowned sound healer and master drummer Christo Pellani. This organic music takes us into peaceful and relaxing spaces - a musical bridge into the dream state and beyond, leaving us with the feeling of rest in nature and connecting us to a higher state of awareness. The combination of all-natural, acoustic and non-computerized sound creates a fresh and deep musical landscape for relaxation, savasana, yoga nidra, meditation, contemplation, restful sleep and more. Most pieces are based on traditional Indian ragas (“that which colors the mind") in the Alap style -- where melody is explored without rhythm, although some have a natural rhythm — but they are performed in a way that is easily accessed by the western ear.

from the album : Savasana Yoga Music: Healing Guitar for Massage, Sleep & Yoga Nidra Nov 2016. The full program of twenty musical pieces is over two hours long and is selected from Stevin’s favorite compositions from the last 15 years, along with several unreleased compositions, presented in a new and unique form, and accompanied by beautiful, healing beds of sound created by renowned sound healer and master drummer Christo Pellani. This organic music takes us into peaceful and relaxing spaces - a musical bridge into the dream state and beyond, leaving us with the feeling of rest in nature and connecting us to a higher state of awareness. The combination of all-natural, acoustic and non-computerized sound creates a fresh and deep musical landscape for relaxation, savasana, yoga nidra, meditation, contemplation, restful sleep and more. Most pieces are based on traditional Indian ragas (“that which colors the mind") in the Alap style -- where melody is explored without rhythm, although some have a natural rhythm — but they are performed in a way that is easily accessed by the western ear.

Most of the pieces on Shanti Guitar are based on the concept of Raga, a traditional form of Indian music that has been in existence for centuries. It's important to note that these pieces are not traditional North Indian Classical music. Rather, they were borne from a personal musical style developed over many years - a style that is heavily influenced by this music. The word Raga itself means “that which colors the mind." It is not only a scale or some fixed sequence of notes; it is considered a living musical entity (like a God or Goddess). The ancient Vedic yogis discovered that ragas have certain harmonious or antagonistic effects depending on when they are played. When correctly performed -- at the appropriate time of day or season of the year -- a spiritual connection between Raga and musician occurs, thus creating a "sound manifestation" between artist and audience. It is an experience that is literally out of this world. "Music is much more than notes produced on an instrument. Every note should live and breathe with a connection to the Soul. Drawing from the infinite tradition of raga, as well as that of blues and those South African sounds of my youth, I have found a way to express my experience in a way that I hope will leave you feeling soothed, healed, uplifted and at peace with one's self and the world. Because that's the feeling I get from playing it. Namaste, Siyabonga and Peace." - Stevin McNamara, Ashland, Oregon, January 2012

Internationally-acclaimed for his Western interpretations of northern India's classical music, Stevin McNamara offers you this entrancing journey called Prana Groove. His signature acoustic stylings flow freely on a current of meditative percussion. A great addition to your yoga or bodywork playlist! Prana = the Sanskrit word for basic primal vital energy which sustains and energizes the body. It moves through the breath. Groove = rhythmic patterns which motivate the body to move. The melodic element of Prana Groove is based on Rag Malkauns – a profound raga which is to be played late at night (usually midnight) – based on a pentatonic (5 note) scale. The large intervals between the notes create an intense emotional effect on the listener. The tempo is 108 beats per minute, chosen for it's sacred Sanskrit value and effect. There are 108 different yet interwoven musical phrases presented throughout the piece. "I created this music as an adventure into the realm of energy and movement," Stevin McNamara explains. "I used the ancient musical form of raga coupled with pulse and drum patterns found in trance and other traditions, such as Sufi Dervish ecstatic dance. I offer it as a celebration of life, of our connection to the earth and all living beings."

Internationally-acclaimed for his Western interpretations of northern India's classical music, Stevin McNamara offers you this entrancing journey called Prana Groove. His signature acoustic stylings flow freely on a current of meditative percussion. A great addition to your yoga or bodywork playlist! Prana = the Sanskrit word for basic primal vital energy which sustains and energizes the body. It moves through the breath. Groove = rhythmic patterns which motivate the body to move. The melodic element of Prana Groove is based on Rag Malkauns – a profound raga which is to be played late at night (usually midnight) – based on a pentatonic (5 note) scale. The large intervals between the notes create an intense emotional effect on the listener. The tempo is 108 beats per minute, chosen for it's sacred Sanskrit value and effect. There are 108 different yet interwoven musical phrases presented throughout the piece. "I created this music as an adventure into the realm of energy and movement," Stevin McNamara explains. "I used the ancient musical form of raga coupled with pulse and drum patterns found in trance and other traditions, such as Sufi Dervish ecstatic dance. I offer it as a celebration of life, of our connection to the earth and all living beings."

Internationally-acclaimed for his Western interpretations of northern India's classical music, Stevin McNamara offers you this entrancing journey called Prana Groove. His signature acoustic stylings flow freely on a current of meditative percussion. A great addition to your yoga or bodywork playlist! Prana = the Sanskrit word for basic primal vital energy which sustains and energizes the body. It moves through the breath. Groove = rhythmic patterns which motivate the body to move. The melodic element of Prana Groove is based on Rag Malkauns – a profound raga which is to be played late at night (usually midnight) – based on a pentatonic (5 note) scale. The large intervals between the notes create an intense emotional effect on the listener. The tempo is 108 beats per minute, chosen for it's sacred Sanskrit value and effect. There are 108 different yet interwoven musical phrases presented throughout the piece. "I created this music as an adventure into the realm of energy and movement," Stevin McNamara explains. "I used the ancient musical form of raga coupled with pulse and drum patterns found in trance and other traditions, such as Sufi Dervish ecstatic dance. I offer it as a celebration of life, of our connection to the earth and all living beings."

Yoga Journal Review : "A passionate performance on guitar offers a Westerner's interpretation of the classical Indian raga. Classical Indian music is all about mood. Songs can evoke joy, tranquillity, even devotion. To accomplish this, musicians base songs on a form called a raga—a melodic pattern built on a framework of notes, rhythms, and musical progressions designed to summon up a particular emotion. It's best to experience ragas if you want to understand them, and now you can get a taste on Stevin McNamara's new album, Om Guitar: Acoustic Meditation Music. A gifted guitarist and sitarist who has worked with Tina Turner, among others, McNamara has released two earlier solo discs: Caroline Myss' Chakra Meditation Music and Yogitar. McNamara's purpose on his newest album is not to imitate classical Indian music, but to apply the principles of raga to the totality of his background as a player of Indian and Western guitar. Om Guitar is made up of four lengthy songs (from 13 to 25 minutes) that unfold at the unhurried pace of a sunny day spent in a leafy canyon. The music contains melodic and harmonic echoes of classical European repertoire, coffeehouse strumming, gentle psychedelia, and easygoing jazz. These combine effortlessly with McNamara's skillful microtonal string bends that are unique to North Indian classical music. This technique creates a plaintive sound that is especially effective in the album's first composition, "Aubade," based on a raga designed to awaken passionate longing. Other compositions showcase McNamara's guitar and sitar playing in tandem. The two instruments intertwine in coy call-and-response patterns and joyful melodies on the album's closing track, "Heartsong Celebration." Another piece, "May Fortune Smile," features McNamara's nylon-string guitar being struck by fingers, brushes, the heel of his hand, and a violin bow. On other tracks, percussionist Nic Dacelo and tamboura/harmonium player Aram Ram provide hypnotic underpinnings. The album as a whole is meditative and soothing, making it an evocative introduction to classical Indian music."

Yoga Journal Review : "A passionate performance on guitar offers a Westerner's interpretation of the classical Indian raga. Classical Indian music is all about mood. Songs can evoke joy, tranquillity, even devotion. To accomplish this, musicians base songs on a form called a raga—a melodic pattern built on a framework of notes, rhythms, and musical progressions designed to summon up a particular emotion. It's best to experience ragas if you want to understand them, and now you can get a taste on Stevin McNamara's new album, Om Guitar: Acoustic Meditation Music. A gifted guitarist and sitarist who has worked with Tina Turner, among others, McNamara has released two earlier solo discs: Caroline Myss' Chakra Meditation Music and Yogitar. McNamara's purpose on his newest album is not to imitate classical Indian music, but to apply the principles of raga to the totality of his background as a player of Indian and Western guitar. Om Guitar is made up of four lengthy songs (from 13 to 25 minutes) that unfold at the unhurried pace of a sunny day spent in a leafy canyon. The music contains melodic and harmonic echoes of classical European repertoire, coffeehouse strumming, gentle psychedelia, and easygoing jazz. These combine effortlessly with McNamara's skillful microtonal string bends that are unique to North Indian classical music. This technique creates a plaintive sound that is especially effective in the album's first composition, "Aubade," based on a raga designed to awaken passionate longing. Other compositions showcase McNamara's guitar and sitar playing in tandem. The two instruments intertwine in coy call-and-response patterns and joyful melodies on the album's closing track, "Heartsong Celebration." Another piece, "May Fortune Smile," features McNamara's nylon-string guitar being struck by fingers, brushes, the heel of his hand, and a violin bow. On other tracks, percussionist Nic Dacelo and tamboura/harmonium player Aram Ram provide hypnotic underpinnings. The album as a whole is meditative and soothing, making it an evocative introduction to classical Indian music."

Yoga Journal Review : "A passionate performance on guitar offers a Westerner's interpretation of the classical Indian raga. Classical Indian music is all about mood. Songs can evoke joy, tranquillity, even devotion. To accomplish this, musicians base songs on a form called a raga—a melodic pattern built on a framework of notes, rhythms, and musical progressions designed to summon up a particular emotion. It's best to experience ragas if you want to understand them, and now you can get a taste on Stevin McNamara's new album, Om Guitar: Acoustic Meditation Music. A gifted guitarist and sitarist who has worked with Tina Turner, among others, McNamara has released two earlier solo discs: Caroline Myss' Chakra Meditation Music and Yogitar. McNamara's purpose on his newest album is not to imitate classical Indian music, but to apply the principles of raga to the totality of his background as a player of Indian and Western guitar. Om Guitar is made up of four lengthy songs (from 13 to 25 minutes) that unfold at the unhurried pace of a sunny day spent in a leafy canyon. The music contains melodic and harmonic echoes of classical European repertoire, coffeehouse strumming, gentle psychedelia, and easygoing jazz. These combine effortlessly with McNamara's skillful microtonal string bends that are unique to North Indian classical music. This technique creates a plaintive sound that is especially effective in the album's first composition, "Aubade," based on a raga designed to awaken passionate longing. Other compositions showcase McNamara's guitar and sitar playing in tandem. The two instruments intertwine in coy call-and-response patterns and joyful melodies on the album's closing track, "Heartsong Celebration." Another piece, "May Fortune Smile," features McNamara's nylon-string guitar being struck by fingers, brushes, the heel of his hand, and a violin bow. On other tracks, percussionist Nic Dacelo and tamboura/harmonium player Aram Ram provide hypnotic underpinnings. The album as a whole is meditative and soothing, making it an evocative introduction to classical Indian music."

Yoga Journal Review : "A passionate performance on guitar offers a Westerner's interpretation of the classical Indian raga. Classical Indian music is all about mood. Songs can evoke joy, tranquillity, even devotion. To accomplish this, musicians base songs on a form called a raga—a melodic pattern built on a framework of notes, rhythms, and musical progressions designed to summon up a particular emotion. It's best to experience ragas if you want to understand them, and now you can get a taste on Stevin McNamara's new album, Om Guitar: Acoustic Meditation Music. A gifted guitarist and sitarist who has worked with Tina Turner, among others, McNamara has released two earlier solo discs: Caroline Myss' Chakra Meditation Music and Yogitar. McNamara's purpose on his newest album is not to imitate classical Indian music, but to apply the principles of raga to the totality of his background as a player of Indian and Western guitar. Om Guitar is made up of four lengthy songs (from 13 to 25 minutes) that unfold at the unhurried pace of a sunny day spent in a leafy canyon. The music contains melodic and harmonic echoes of classical European repertoire, coffeehouse strumming, gentle psychedelia, and easygoing jazz. These combine effortlessly with McNamara's skillful microtonal string bends that are unique to North Indian classical music. This technique creates a plaintive sound that is especially effective in the album's first composition, "Aubade," based on a raga designed to awaken passionate longing. Other compositions showcase McNamara's guitar and sitar playing in tandem. The two instruments intertwine in coy call-and-response patterns and joyful melodies on the album's closing track, "Heartsong Celebration." Another piece, "May Fortune Smile," features McNamara's nylon-string guitar being struck by fingers, brushes, the heel of his hand, and a violin bow. On other tracks, percussionist Nic Dacelo and tamboura/harmonium player Aram Ram provide hypnotic underpinnings. The album as a whole is meditative and soothing, making it an evocative introduction to classical Indian music."