American sitarist David Pontbriand Submitted photo

American sitarist David Pontbriand will perform at the Oasis of Music from 12:30-1 p.m. on Wednesday Oct. 19, at Trinity Church in Lewiston.

Pontbriand began his journey with the sitar in 1973. His story is an exception to the rule, in that he is entirely self-taught. He is driven by an intuitive and emotive approach that is deeply personal, and yet displays elements of classical Indian forms and style. His original and primarily spontaneous compositions for sitar are freely interpretive, while rooted in the classical ragas of north India. Pontbriand explains “While I have great respect for the Indian classical traditions, I do not necessarily adhere to any of them. I allow free reign to my own musical invention.”

He will be playing an all new carbon fiber sitar, crafted in North Carolina by luthier Harry Shaffer, a pioneer in creating a unique 21st century iteration of the sitar.

The Oasis of Music is a weekly music series of performances of roughly thirty minutes, running from September to May. Admission is free, with donations accepted. The musical genres vary greatly, in largely, but not exclusively, acoustic formats. COVID restrictions of optional mask-wearing and social distancing are observed. Trinity Church is located at 247 Bates St., Lewiston. For more information, call 207-344-3106.