Intonation Foundation
Who We Are
Intonation Foundation is a Bay Area–based nonprofit founded in 2017 by a group of passionate volunteer music-lovers with one simple belief: Hindustani classical music is an ancient art that is also a living, breathing force that can bring people together.
We aim to be an anchor for our community of musicians, gurus, students, listeners, and enthusiasts by creating spaces that encourage connection, learning, and growth. Our programs include music history talks, listening appreciation sessions, introductory events, and concerts showcasing exclusively local artists with a balance between elevating youth, emerging voices, and honoring senior, established artists.
Our flagship offering is the Ustad Amir Khan Music Festival, a full-day Bay Area experience named after the legendary artist whose music embodied being present, savoring each moment, and cherishing every swar. The festival and our year-round programming reflect our mission: to marry deep respect for an ancient tradition with today’s pressing desire for community, expression, and joy.
Ustad Amir Khan
Music Festival
The Ustad Amir Khan Music Festival is Intonation Foundation’s flagship event — a full-day celebration of Hindustani classical music held each year in California’s South Bay. From morning until night, audiences are guided through a journey of ragas that unfold across three music sessions, each offering a distinct emotional and melodic landscape. Between performances, guests gather over lunch and snacks, sharing conversation, stories, and a love of music that binds the community together.
Since its debut in 2018, the festival has featured over 75 artists and accompanying musicians, spotlighting the immense talent and dedication of our local music community.
Named for Ustad Amir Khan, founder of the Indore Gharana, the festival draws inspiration from his signature style — slow, expansive raga development; reverence for time; and the power of thoughtful pause. His approach embodies the values we strive to honor: to slow down, to never compromise on taste, and to cherish the stillness that Hindustani music so beautifully evokes.
Intonation Events
We design our events and concerts throughout the year to spark conversation and deepen appreciation for Hindustani classical music. Below are some of our past series that have brought artists, students, and listeners together in exploration and dialogue. Stay connected — join our mailing list, follow us on social media, or check back soon to see what’s next.
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Prominent Bay Area gurus guide the audience through an intermediate to advanced listening appreciation session.
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A beginner-friendly lecture-demonstration on the topic of understanding vilambit style musical content.
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A concert featuring rising stars of the Bay Area.
