'This is a Golden Age for Young Carnatic Musicians'

Senior Musicians  Bombay Sisters Saroja and Lalitha, winner of many awards and titles from India and abroad, including Kalaimamani from Tamil Nadu Government, Sangeetha Choodamani from Krishna Gana Sabha, Sangeetha Nataka Academy Award, Sangeetha Kalanidhi  from Music Academy,  Isai Peraringnar Award from Tamil Isai, to mention a few, who carry forward the torch of the traditional culture. Excerpts from the interaction with the Bombay Sisters...

ON MARGAZHI FESTIVAL

We are indeed happy that in this season, more youngsters participate and more voices are heard  coming into the realm of carnatic music.  It is really a “Golden age” for young musicians.

ON KUTCHERY PRESENTATION

The most important factor is cultivation of voice and good control over laya. Adherence to proper intonation and understanding, the meaning of the kriti, as Sahitya reflects such depths, of the composer’s  realisation.  What  is required is deep understanding  of the Bhava, a methodical development of  Raga, with imagination and ‘Kalapramana Sudhdham’ in rendition.

ON MODE OF TRAINING

Gurukulavasam may not be as feasible as in yester years, because of the jet age.  No doubt if kriti is learnt from the notation or recorded music, you give your views of the  Raga only, to the kriti. On the other hand, if it is learnt from a Guru, it is inevitable that the richness of the kriti  or raga will emerge.

ON EFFICACY OF MUSIC

Sangeetham is Agama, a divine heritage and one should try to expound and enjoy the exposition of the immortal classics of the great composers.  We believe music is just the  link created in the transmission of the feelings of the composer to the musician and in turn  to the audience.

ON CONTEMPORARY MUSICAL VALUES

We are categorical that the values should not change and each word of kriti should emanate from the inbred spirituality of pure bhakti, with expressive interpretation of the song rendered.