Today we’d like to introduce you to RAJIB KARMAKAR
Hi RAJIB, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Absolutely! My musical journey began at a very young age, growing up in a family deeply rooted in music in India. I was fortunate to start learning the sitar at just four years old under the guidance of my father, Pandit Durgadas Karmakar. Music wasn’t just something I studied—it was an integral part of my life. By the age of six, I gave my first public performance, and by twelve, I had the honor of performing on All India Radio. These early experiences played a crucial role in shaping my dedication and passion for the sitar.
As I progressed, I had the privilege of training in the intricate “Beenkar” style of sitar playing under Pandit Ramdas Chakravarty of the Senia Gharana, while also learning classical vocal techniques from Ustad Ghulam Akbar Khan of the Rampur Sahsawan Gharana. This diverse training greatly influenced my approach, allowing me to develop a fluid, expressive style that emulates vocal nuances on the sitar through the “gayaki ang” technique. I later pursued my master’s degree at the California Institute of the Arts, where I expanded my musical horizons by exploring various genres and styles.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with extraordinary artists across different musical landscapes, from legendary figures like Herb Alpert, Beck, and Chris Martin of Coldplay to acclaimed musicians such as Sandeep Das, Sugar Blue, and Wu Tong. I have also performed with esteemed ensembles like the LA Master Chorale, Atlanta Master Chorale, and Detroit Symphony. These collaborations have allowed me to push the boundaries of traditional Indian classical music, blending it seamlessly with contemporary and global influences.
Beyond the stage, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to major productions for Disney, Warner Bros., Sony, Universal, and A&E Network. It’s always exciting to see the sitar find its place in modern media, and I love being part of that creative evolution.
Education is another passion of mine, and I’ve been fortunate to share my knowledge through residencies and lectures at institutions such as UCLA, CalArts, Harvard, Dartmouth, Brandeis, Butler University and many more. I believe that music is a living tradition—one that thrives through continuous learning, adaptation, and innovation.
Currently, I am based in Los Angeles, where I serve as the Artistic Director of the Los Angeles International Music and Arts Academy (LAIMACADEMY). Here, I work closely with musicians from diverse backgrounds, helping them refine their craft while fostering meaningful cross-cultural musical exchanges.
Reflecting on my journey, it has been one of constant learning, exploration, and collaboration. From my early days as a young sitarist in India to performing on global stages and mentoring the next generation, it has been an incredible adventure. And in many ways, I feel like I’m just getting started—there’s still so much music to create, new collaborations to discover, and stories to tell through my sitar.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all! Like any meaningful journey, mine has been filled with challenges, but each obstacle has shaped me into the musician and person I am today.
One of the biggest struggles was balancing tradition with innovation. Coming from a deeply rooted classical background, I was always mindful of honoring the purity of Indian classical music while also exploring new sounds and collaborations. Finding that balance—where innovation doesn’t dilute tradition but enhances it—was a journey in itself.
Another challenge was navigating the music industry as an independent artist, especially after moving to the U.S. While I had a strong foundation in classical music, building a career in a new country meant starting from scratch in many ways—establishing connections, adapting to different musical landscapes, and finding my place in a competitive industry. Financial constraints, visa challenges, and cultural differences were all part of the learning curve.
There were also personal sacrifices. As a touring musician, I spend a lot of time away from family, which can be difficult. But music has a way of creating its own sense of belonging, and I’ve been fortunate to build relationships with incredible musicians and audiences worldwide who make every step of the journey worthwhile.
Through it all, the passion for my craft has kept me going. Every challenge has been an opportunity to grow, evolve, and redefine my artistic identity. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing—because the struggles have only made the journey more meaningful.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Los Angeles International Music and Arts Academy?
I’d love to share more about my organization! I am the Artistic Director of the Los Angeles International Music and Arts Academy (LAIMACADEMY), which is dedicated to fostering cross-cultural musical education and artistic excellence. Our mission is to provide high-quality music training that blends tradition with innovation, creating a space where students of all backgrounds can develop their skills and artistic voices.
What We Do & Specialize In
At LAIMACADEMY, we offer specialized training in Indian classical music, including sitar, tabla, vocal, and other traditional instruments. But what truly sets us apart is our approach—we bridge Indian classical traditions with contemporary and world music styles, allowing students to explore fusion, improvisation, and collaboration across genres.
We work with students of all levels, from beginners to professional musicians, helping them refine their craft, deepen their understanding of music, and develop their own artistic identities. Additionally, we offer masterclasses, workshops, and mentorship programs featuring globally renowned artists, providing unique opportunities for students to learn from the best.
What Sets Us Apart
One of the things I’m most proud of is our commitment to cultural fusion and artistic freedom. Unlike conventional music schools, we don’t just teach a single style—we encourage our students to explore new creative directions, whether that’s blending Indian classical with jazz, electronic music, or orchestral compositions. We also emphasize mental health and healing through music, recognizing its power beyond performance and entertainment.
Moreover, my extensive experience as a performer, educator, and collaborator with global artists gives our academy a distinctive advantage. Drawing from my work with diverse industry professionals and organizations, I provide real-world insights that help our students refine their craft and gain a deeper understanding of the music industry.
What I’m Most Proud of Brand-Wise
I take great pride in the fact that LAIMACADEMY has become a recognized hub for Indian classical music in Los Angeles, as well as a space for innovative cross-genre collaborations. Whether it’s training young musicians, mentoring professional artists, or curating cultural events, our academy has built a reputation for excellence, inclusivity, and creative exploration.
What I Want Readers to Know
If you’re passionate about music—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist—LAIMACADEMY is a place where you can grow, connect, and be inspired. We offer private lessons, group classes, workshops, and even virtual sessions for those outside Los Angeles. If you’re interested in learning, collaborating, or simply immersing yourself in music, we welcome you to be a part of our journey!
Visit : https://www.laimacademy.org/
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
Luck has played a role in my journey, but I believe it’s how we respond to it that truly matters. I was fortunate to be born into a musical family, but it was years of dedication that shaped my path. Some of my biggest opportunities came from chance encounters, yet being prepared allowed me to make the most of them. Challenges that seemed like bad luck often led to unexpected growth. In the end, while luck opens doors, hard work and perseverance determine the journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sitarrajib.com/about-rajib-karmakar-sitarrajib/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sitarrajib/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sitarrajib
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sitarrajib/
- Twitter: https://x.com/sitarrajib
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/sitarrajib
- Other: https://www.laimacademy.org/
Image Credits
Jon Gates
Mike Smalley
Srivas Venkatesh
