Ep: 408| Newa Music, Bhaktapur & Beyond: Gert Matthias on Ethnomusicology in Nepal | Gert Matthias | Sushant Pradhan Podcast

Join us in this powerful conversation with Gert Matthias, a renowned ethnomusicologist who has spent decades studying and preserving Newa music traditions in Bhaktapur, Nepal. In this episode, Gert shares his journey from his early days studying chemistry to discovering tabla, immersing in the Guru Shishya tradition of Indian classical music, and eventually specializing in ethnomusicology in Nepal. We dive deep into the world of traditional Nepali musical instruments like the Dhimey and Nau Baja drums, the spiritual connection of music and rituals during Jatra, and the significance of music as a bridge between the human and divine realms. Gert also talks about the decline of Newa music culture, the impact of Nepal's guthi system, and the biased copyright laws for musicians in Nepal. As a foreigner navigating the rich Newari cultural heritage, Gert reflects on being accepted by the community, contributing through his work and books, and co-founding the Kathmandu University music department. The discussion also explores his views on homeopathy vs modern medicine, Newari drums vs global percussion instruments, and the spiritual depth of music rituals and blood offerings. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in music preservation in South Asia, Bhaktapur’s 1980s culture, and choosing passion over money in the pursuit of art. GET CONNECTED WITH Gert Matthias: email: [email protected]