Supravat/Sam Bhattacharya:  

Life I was born in Berhampore, West Bengal, India and came to the U.S. with my parents and two older brothers in 1972. I lived in Oxon Hill, MD from 1972 to 1977. Then moved to Hyattsville and lived there from 1977 to 2000. I finally moved to Silver Spring, where I now live with my wife. Nowadays, my friends and colleagues know me as "Sam Bhattacharya," which is a name I've adapted from my father. My life passion is playing music. I currently have an artist page at myspace.com/sambhattacharya. My main instrument is the guitar. I've been playing guitar and drums since I was 9 and bass since I was 10. I've also had short stints on other instruments, like saxophone and keyboards. My greatest musical inspiration is the Canadian rock band Rush. The last time I saw them was during their 30th Anniversary Tour at the Nissan Pavilion (in summer 2004). Some other favorite bands are Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Yes, Boston, Van Halen and Mahavishnu Orchestra. I also admire the solo guitar work of Steve Vai, Eric Johnson and Al DiMeola among many others. I also enjoy traveling. Outside the U.S. I've traveled in Canada, Britain, Italy, Switzerland and India, and intend travel to many other countries in the future. Traveling greatly expands one's appreciation of different peoples, and their histories, languages and cultures. It is one great way that we can truly connect with our fellow human beings. School I started off at Glassmanor elementary school in Oxon Hill, MD back in Kindergarten ('75) and part of first grade. I don't remember any names from back then. Sure wish I could though. The rest of my early years were spent at Lewisdale elementary school in Lewisdale, MD. My teachers were, from 1st to 6th grade, Mrs. Oglesby, Mrs. Dragoo, Mrs. Lodge, Mrs. Marks, Mrs. Donnelly and Mr. Cecil. Mrs. Dragoo and Mrs. Lodge did their very best to whip me into the shape I'm in today, and for that I shall be indebted to them for eternity. ;-) Mrs. ...Expand for more