Classical Music

I started learning Indian Classical music when I was 16 from Dr. Mrs. Rama Rao a disciple of Sangeetha Kalanidhi S. Ramanathan. Indian classical music is divided into Hindusthani (Primarily North Indian) and Carnatic (Mainly South Indian) styles. I am a student of Carnatic music. Click here to learn more about Indian Carnatic Music.

Also, I have been learning Carnatic Violin (since May 2001) and Western Violin (since June 2002). While, the instrument is the same for the both styles of music, the tuning and playing styles are poles apart. Click here to find out more about the Violin and its Roles (and Responsibilities) in Indian Classical Music. I have been learning Carnatic Violin from Mr Murali Kumar. After initially learning the art of fiddle playing from the Violin Vidwan, Kanchi Janardhanan, he had later received advanced training from Violin Maestro M.S. Gopalakrishnan.

I learn Western Violin (Suzuki Style) from Mrs Frances Gall. I have found that by learning Western violin, I have been able to considerably improve my bowing techniques which I can use for Carnatic Violin playing as well.

I have had the opportunity of learning Vocal Music from distinguished musicians like Pudukottai Krishnamurthy and V. Sundareshan. I have had the privilige of being under the tutelage of Violin Vidwan, Kanchi Janardhanan (for both Violin AND Vocal training) for a brief period of time. Most recently, I have been been had the priviledge of learning from the renowned violinist M.A. Sundareshwaran in Chennai.

Also, I have been very fortunate to have received advanced vocal training from the flute Maestro Thyagarajan Ramani, especially in RTP and Kalpana Swara Kanakku (pattern based swara rendering) techniques. Currently I am learning Vocal music in Sydney from Dr M.S. Ramanathan - a highly renowed disciple of Sangeetha Kalanidhi K.V. Narayanaswamy.