Divesh Karamchandani studied music at CSU Stanislaus and graduated with honors. Now an accomplished teacher and performer, Karamchandani will return Sept. 19 for a landmark performance at Snider Recital Hall.
“I would have to say, this recital is both the highlight and the start of my solo performance career,” he said. “It is an honor to be able to perform my first professional solo recital at my alma mater.”
Karamchandani graduated in 2012 with a Bachelor of Music in percussion performance and instrumental music education, after which he quickly embarked on what is already a successful and decorated career. He recently earned a master’s degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, having studied with world-renowned percussionist Jack Van Geem.
He is now the principal percussionist for the Modesto-based Townsend Opera Players and a member of the U.S. Beacon Artist Association, with recent performances including the Townsend Opera productions of “La Traviata” and “La Boheme.”
Karamchandani is equally passionate about and accomplished in his teaching. He is the youngest teaching artist in the San Francisco Symphony’s Instrument Training and Support Program and is the Director of Percussion at San Francisco’s Phillip & Sala Burton High School. He also gives weekly lessons at middle schools and high schools in the San Francisco Unified School District and returns to CSU Stanislaus each year to teach at the University’s Summer Music camp.
“My goals include encouraging personal development through music and ensuring all students are exposed to the diverse world of percussion,” he said.
As a performer, Karamchandani offers a fascinating repertoire of music for percussion instruments, including some not typically heard in solo settings, like the timpani or snare drum. His Sept. 19 recital will include percussive presentations of a variety of American compositions from across the 20th century — as well as an interpretation of Bach.
Stuart Sims, music professor and director of instrumental studies at CSU Stanislaus, said Karamchandani’s performance will be an inspiration to current students and a unique experience for all who attend.
“We’re bringing him back to perform because he’s a terrific musician, and so that our current students can see and hear what a CSU Stanislaus graduate is accomplishing just a few short years after finishing our program,” Sims said. “Divesh is a thrilling and engaging presence on stage, and I think that all who attend his recital will have a wonderful, fun time.”