Carnatic Classical music is one of the most sophisticated and aesthetic art forms of India. The system as practiced today can be traced to about the 15th century. With its multilayered form, each aspect supports and enhances the other facets of this complex art. This makes it quite intimidating for a new listener. What are the basic concepts? What are the various presentations? What does one look for? These are some of the many questions that a person usually has when he or she listens to Carnatic music. In this presentation we have tried to take you through a journey from the basics right up to a concert. Every element that makes this music rich and deep is dealt with. We have not diluted or simplified any concept but made everything accessible and demystified the music for you. We hope that this will help you appreciate this unique art form and celebrate its magnificence. - T.M. Krishna

Sangeetha Sivakumar (vocal) is one of those rare artists who sings Carnatic music with a great balance between tradition and creative brilliance. Her sharp intellect and natural flow of raga makes her music intoxicating. She has been performing for over two decades and is known for her uncompromising classical style.

R. K. Shriramkumar (violin) is a musicians musician. A violinist of the highest order, he is today one of the leading musicians in our country. Having accompanied over six generations of artists he stands for purity of music in all its aspects.

K Arun Prakash (mrudangam) is a musician who treats tala as an extension of raga. This unique attitude makes his accompanying style minimalistic yet strong and brave. His mathematical innovations are today trends that are being followed by musicians of the next generation.

B. S. Purushotham (Kanjira) has established his presence as an artist not by virtuosity but more by his understanding and tempered response to music. Today he is a leading artist who adds great lustre and dignity to the percussion ensemble in any Carnatic concert.

Direction : S.B. Khanthan:

 

I. BASIC CONCEPTS

a) Sruti b) Swaras and Gamakas c) Raga - concept, differentiation, melakartas d) Tala and Laya

II. COMPOSITIONS

a) Geetham b) Parts of a composition c) Varnam d) Swarajati e) Keertana f) Padam and Javali g) Ragamalika h) Thillana i) Thiruppugazh

III. PATANTHARAMS

IV. LYRICAL BEAUTY IN COMPOSITIONS

V. MANODHARMA - IMPROVISATION

a) Alapana b) Neraval c) Kalpana swara d) Thanam e) Virutham/Slokam

VI. KANAKKU - MATHEMATICS IN MUSIC

a) Karvai b) Mathematical patterns in compositions c) Poruttam d) Numbers in musical form e) Koraippu f) Korvai g) Thani Avarthanam h) Trikalam in Pallavi

VII. CONCLUSION a) Instruments
b) Languages
c) Concert Format
d) 'The Sound of Carnatic Music'