Circle of Fire

The latest CD from award-winning composer and multi-instrumentalist Benjy Wertheimer is an extraordinary dance journey through the music of many cultures around the world. The album's influences range from rock, funk and jazz to West African, Indonesian and Indian folk and classical traditions. Many moods are woven throughout the CD, inviting the dancers fully into their bodies and inspiring them to take themselves through the full spectrum of expressive movement.

Soul of the Esraj

Is a musical canvas for the practices of healing arts, hatha yoga and meditation. While the album has its roots in the classical music of North India, many elements of New Age and contemporary ambient musical styles have been included to build a multifaceted soundscape for each listener's spiritual journey. It is Benjy's hope and prayer that Soul of the Esraj will prove to be a steady and soulful companion to each listener on their path through this precious gift of life.

The pieces on the CD feature the esraj (an instrument from North India that resembles a small sitar but is played with a bow) accompanied by instruments from around the world, including bass flute, Celtic harp, viola da gamba, voice, and guitar. Indian classical ragas (ancient melodic forms) are associated with a particular time of day, and the selections on Soul of the Esraj flow through a sequence based on the ragas from which they are derived.

"When I listen to Benjy play the esraj it transports me beyond the Beyond. 'Soul of the Esraj' is a must-have CD for all yoga practitioners." 

-John Friend, founder of Anusara Yoga

-Krishna Das

CDs can be ordered online now at www.anusara.com

They can also be ordered by phone at 1-888-398-YOGA

or by mail for $15 + $3 S/H from

Benjy Wertheimer, PO Box 80770, Portland, OR 97280-1770