Appreciation for Indian Music has grown steadily in this country since its introduction in the 1960's by such artists as Pandit Ravi Shankar and Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. American audiences have always admired the combination of improvisation and classical discipline which are the basis of Indian art. The Academy of Indian Music and Fine Arts (AIMFA) was established by Ustad Hamid Hossain to actively
promote the growth and appreciation of classical Indian music and dance in the United States. Ustad Hossain continues the tradition of his father, Late Ustad Kader Buksh. Ustad Buksh was a renowned performer, teacher, and musicologist from West Bengal. He developed many theories of formal Indian composition, authored numerous publications, and introduced classical music to diverse audiences throughout India. Like his father before him, Ustad Hossain feels that everyone should have access to India's musical richness and the opportunity to study and develop their talents. AIMFA provides a wide range of activities and instruction for everyone from the enthusiasts to the devotee. Through a special relationship with Prayag Sangeet Samiti in Allahabad, India, AIMFA offers credit courses in classical music. Formal courses leading to the Sangeet Pravahkar Examination are available. AIMFA also sponsors leading Indian artists for national tours of this country. Through its sister organization, AIM Records (AIMREC) , AIMFA produces and distributes high quality compact disks and cassettes, featuring some of the finest young musicians, such as Budhaditya Mukherjee, Shujaat Khan, and some legendary artists, such as Ustad Vilayat Khan. All AIM products are digitally recorded and expertly engineered here in the United States
The Academy actively promotes and propagates the beautiful music of India. In its 32nd year, the Annual Indian Music & Dance Competition is a one of a kind event outside of India. We have over 250 participants who participate in a wide range of classical, semi-classical, dance and popular music. Since its inception 32 years ago, the competition has had may thousands of visitors and participants from all 50 of the United States and as far as Mexico, South America, Canada and Europe.
