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 A
quintessential accompanist, Mayavaram Somasundaram, the
octogenarian kanjira maestro, believes in supporting the main
artiste and the mridangist.
A brilliant star from the Isai
Vellalar community, he has made his home town Mayavaram proud by
elevating the status of kanjira to international standards.
Music courses through his veins as he belongs
to a family of musicians. Why did he choose kanjira? "I simply
love the instrument and am fascinated by it," declares
Somasundaram, affectionately called Somu.
He learnt mridangam first and then switched
over to kanjira. His training under Thirumullaivayal Muthuvir
Pillai, a renowned tavil maestro, and Kuthalam Siva Vadivel
Pillai, a famous mridanga vidwan, made him absorb the different
styles and he evolved a new style for himself.
He enjoyed the halcyon days of apprenticeship
and he was exposed to different aspects of laya. His long
slender fingers speak about his asura sadhakam.
Somu's maiden performance was at Chennai when
he accompanied iconic M K Thyagaraja Bhagavathar. This young
talent was spotted by the luminaries of the music world and he
was asked to accompany them.
Somu's steadfast parternership with the
legendary Madurai Somasundaram, the vocalist will be etched in
our memory forever. "Madurai somu will look fresh even after
long hours of travel," states Kanjira Somu. "His concerts will
extend after midnight which show his sheer excellence of
virtuosity."
"Madurai Mani Iyer will get offended if he is
asked to finish the concert, for the tempo will set in after an
hour or so," laughs Somu.
He had a good rapport with all musicians. Is
there any musician he has not accompanied? He has the unique
distinction of accompanying four generations of musicians.
Somu feels that it is very difficult to play
for Thirupugazh as it is a storehouse of talas.
One should cultivate a taste for laya as it
is an integral part of music, admits Somu. This laya exponent
feels that we should command tala and not vice versa. The
percussionists should play in consonance with the main artistes
and should not
strike discordant notes.
"We should be prepared to play impromptu only
then our talent will surface," advises Somu.
Many dancers seek his advice on laya. Somu
lays emphasis on kelvi gnanam as it will make perfect one's
techniques. He has travelled throughout the world and conducts
classes In London.
He has been honoured with several awards
including 'Laya Selvam' and the 'Kalaimamani'. He trains several
students at home in Mylapore, Chennai.
Somu has redefined the art which is paramount
to him.
Mira
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