Carnatic Vocal Concert

Carnatic Vocal Concert

By Bharat Sundar

Saturday, April 6, 2024 | 4:30 PM

Fugett Middle School Auditorium

500 Ellis Lane
West Chester, PA 19380

About This Event

Bharat Sundar

A Chennai-based Carnatic singer and composer, Bharat Sundar’s tryst with music began when he was 5 years old. Born on August 30th 1988 to S Krishnamoorthi and Lakshmi Krishnamoorthi, Bharat’s talent in singing was first recognized when he bagged the first prize in a singing competition conducted at his father’s workplace. In the following year, when he turned 6, he began his formal training under his chitthi (maternal aunt), Gayatri Mahesh. However, in a short while, she had to pass the baton to G Srikanth.

He also had his first introduction to Ragam Tanam Pallavis through an interactive workshop conducted by Pallavi expert Sri. Trichy J.Venkatraman and Sri Srimushnam Rajarao. 

Awards

Vani Kala Nipuna- 2023

 Ustad Bismillah Khan Yuva Puraskar- 2020 

Yuva Kalaratna- 2023 

Chennai Sangeet Natak Akademi 

Yuva Purandara Award -2020 

Kalki Sri.Krishnamurthy Award- 2019

 Dr. M. L. Vasanthakumari Award –  2015

Isai Chudar 2010 

Yuva Puraskar 2017

 Bru Canatic Music Idol 2010

Yuvakala Bharati 2009

S. Sayee Rakshith (Violin)

Having started his journey as a performer at the age of 10, Sayee Rakshith has performed with various leading Carnatic Artistes. He has also played many duet concerts with his guru Kumari A. Kanyakumari.

Sayee has played concerts all over India and abroad in countries including USA and Singapore. He was part of the “Dharti Ma” initiative by Earth Day network which featured leading Musicians across India including Smt. Bombay Jayashree, Shri Shankar Mahadevan, Smt. Kaushiki Chakraborty, Shri Hans Raj, Shri Abhishek Raghuram, etc.

Sayee has been a part of the band ‘Staccato’ since 2018. and continues to venture and collaborate with leading musicians across various genres. He has also been playing in the film industry for various music directors including M.M. Keeravani, G.V. Prakash, Leon James, Girishh Gopalakrishnan and Vishal Chandrashekhar.

Sumesh Narayanan

Sumesh Narayanan’s prominence in the realm of Carnatic percussion is nothing short of extraordinary, distinguishing him as one of the most exceptional and highly sought-after artists of the present generation. His journey in the world of Carnatic music is marked by dedication and an insatiable thirst for mastery. For over two decades, Sumesh has been under the tutelage of the eminent Mridangam Maestro, “Sangita Kalanidhi” Dr. Thiruvaarur Bakthavathsalam. This extended period of mentorship has not only solidified his technical prowess but also immersed him deeply in the time-honored traditions of the mridangam within the Carnatic style.

However, what truly sets Sumesh Narayanan apart is the unique fusion of elements within his artistic persona. On one hand, he stands as a staunch advocate of preserving and mastering the profound traditions that have been passed down through generations within the Carnatic mridangam oeuvre. His commitment to this heritage is unwavering, reflecting in the precision and authenticity of his performances. 

On the other hand, Sumesh possesses a rare attribute—an open and expansive worldview. This outlook transcends the boundaries of tradition and allows him to seamlessly integrate into a broader musical landscape. He is not confined to the classical stage alone but ventures into uncharted territories, embracing innovation and interdisciplinary collaborations with enthusiasm.

This dual identity of Sumesh positions him as a pivotal force in diverse and groundbreaking musical projects. His contributions are not just welcomed but highly cherished by his collaborators, who admire his ability to infuse fresh ideas and boundless energy into their endeavours. Sumesh’s dynamic playing style electrifies audiences, whether he is delivering a classical Carnatic performance or participating in experimental, fusion, or contemporary musical explorations.

In an era where musical genres often harmonise and collaborate, Sumesh hopes to facilitate the dialogue between tradition and innovation. His simultaneous dedication to preserving the past and embracing the future serves as a beacon of inspiration for both aspiring musicians and seasoned artists. Sumesh’s artistry ensures that the mridangam, a timeless instrument in the world of Carnatic music, not only endures but also evolves to remain relevant in today’s ever-changing musical landscape. His influence extends far beyond the boundaries of his instrument, enriching the world of music with his multifaceted talents and profound appreciation for both heritage and innovation.

Chandrasekara Sharma (Ghatam)

Chandrasekara Sharma is one of the most sought-after Ghatam artists in the Carnatic Music circuit today. 

Chandrasekara Sharma  hails from an illustrious musical lineage. After his debut concert in 2000 there has been no looking back. He has shared the stage with some of the most iconic musicians of this generation.  Chandrasekara Sharma  is known for his clear fingering techniques and all-round knowledge of music accompaniment and mathematics. He has established himself as one of the foremost artists in the field of percussion today. 

Chandrasekara Sharma  has performed in the presence of Former President of India, APJ Abdul Kalam. He is the founding member of the Carnatic Instrumental Band, Trinayana and has been actively involved in experimental music ensembles, instrumental medleys and fusion shows. Chandrasekara Sharma  is a Graded A Artist of All India Radio and Doordarshan, Chennai, India.