Carnatic Conundrums – Details, episodes & analysis

Join Neha as she speaks with Roopa Mahadevan, a Carnatic and cross-over artist living in New York City as they dive into the intricacies of being an artist amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.  Neha and Roopa dive into how artists are emotionally and financially grappling with cancelled shows and performances and the near term implications of quarantine on artists and their well being.  They then change course and focus on the role of social media in facilitating momentum in a time where physical proximity is limited.  This is part one in a three part North America COVID-19 series.

Join Neha as she interviews violin Vidwan Sri. Vittal Ramamurthy and explores his unique musical journey.  Vittal Ji arose from humble roots beginning his musical journey in a small village in the South Canara district of Karnataka and eventually made it onto the big stage in the bustling city of Chennai.  Part of his journey involves returning to his home town every year to give back and elevate the local music students so they, like Vittal Ji himself, can become successful musicians, against all odds

Join Neha as she sits with Guru Neyveli as they discuss his many sides.  From a guru to an extensive Parampara, to a composer, to a performer, Neyveli Sir explores the many facets of his musical journey.  He explains his ideas on Bhakti within music, pushing the boundaries of "Carnaticism", and what he's learned as a teacher.

Join Kamal and Neha as they speak with T.M. Krishna, a renowned Carnatic singer, author, and social activist, about his views on the changing landscape of Carnatic music. They explore topics such as how the modern understanding of this art form has formed and how Carnatic music has and currently sits within its greater socio-political context.

Join Neha as she interviews Aditya Prakash, a young musician who is well versed not only Carnatic music but genres such as hindustani, jazz, and. Sufi, just to name a few. Aditya grew up in in the Los Angeles, CA and now splits his time between the US and India as a full time musician.  In this interview he speaks about his ex[presences growing up as a young musician in the United States and what ultimately led him too pursue his passion full-time. In addition, Aditya and Neha explore the current climate of Carnatic music in the global context and discuss the impact of the #MeToo movement in Carnatic music.

Join us as we interview Dr. Sowmya and discuss her insights into coming up as a Carnatic artist today, changes in the music season, and balancing academia and music.