|
 Nestled
in sylvan surroundings, IIT-Madras resonated with the
mellifluous music of
Neyveli
Santhanagopalan recently. The curtain-raiser of the concert
was a Varnam in Asaveri. “This is the first time I am rendering
this Varnam,” stated the vocalist, surprising his rasikas. He
imparted deft touches and delicate shades to the Varnam which
suggested a musical feast ahead.
He showed immense class in his sketch of Atana and the song
‘Ambayani Nee’ was aglow with gamakas. The following piece in
Saramathi – Sarasadalanayane - by Harikesanallur Muthiah
Bhagavathar was high in traditional values. His delineation of
the raga was steeped in classicism. His prayogas adhered to the
grammar of lakshana. The barrage of swaras showcased his
virtuosity.
The piece de resistance was the RTP – Ragam Tanam Pallavi -
in Suruti. ‘Varada Venkata Shaila Vihara’ was an intense
intellectual exercise. His impromptu rendering of 15 ragas
flowed like a woodland stream .The concluding piece in
Madhayamavathi was a granary of sukha bhava.
M A Sunderaswaran on the violin played with panache.
Guruvayoor Durai on the mridangam pumped out rhythmic
patterns.
Suresh on the ghatam meshed well with the mridangist. Their
tani had excellent laya bouts and was elegant and erudite.
There was another surprise in store for the audience: Neyveli
Santhanagopalan recalled his musical soiree at the campus for
Mardigras way back in 1983 when he won a prize, on a trip down
memory lane.
Mira
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