Music and dance reviews

Tributes to RKS

The Guru Keshava Surya Memorial Trust conducted a two-day music festival on the occasion of the 80th birth anniversary of Vidwan R K Suryanarayana.

R K Suryanarayana (1937-2004) was not only a great veena player but also an able teacher who had taught a number of youngsters. He was a composer too. Veena ensemble, solo veena recitals by both senior and upcoming artistes, jugalbandi and vocal recitals were held to mark the occasion, which were well coordinated by Vidwan R K Shankar.

Six senior disciples of Suryanarayana presented six compositions on their veenas. Well known Darbar varna gave them a bright start. It was followed by another familiar composition “Pranamamyaham” in the raga Gowla. They also presented two compositions of Suryanarayana, which were also well received by the audience.

Revathi was brief but evocative. The devaranama “Rayarendare” reminded at once that RKS. was also a “Asthan Vidwan” of Mantralaya Mutt. “Raja Raja Rajite” of Dr L Muthaiah Bhagawathar in the raga Niroshtaka was another fine selection. Charukeshi is a “Krama Sampurna” raga, which was brought to light by Saint Tyagaraja. Especially his composition “Aadamodigalade” is quiet popular in this raga. The performers – Meena Murthy, …read more