This weekend, a group of Carnatic instrumentalists try to explore harmony through an orchestral perfor-mance. It’s not an usual happening, considering patrons of Carnatic music witness mostly individual concerts. “That is why this concept of an orchestra is unique,” says Mysore Manjunath, violin maestro, the man behind this year’s edition of Youth Carnatic Orchestra (YCO), by Bhoomija. Manjunath further explains, “It’s a rare thing because Carnatic music is more melodic, unlike Western classical music that’s based more on harmony.”
Manjunath has worked on special compositions for this presentation by 12 Carnatic violinists, four percussionists and a pianist. Each of the special compositions is unique because all the musicians will be playing from different scripts in different segments. “We are giving equal importance to classicism and creativity and the highlight of the concert is the use of Raga Kirvani which has been included in a special composition,” says Manju-nath. A 90-minute concert, the YCO features well-known, young violinists.
This is the second time that Bhoomija is bringing to stage a group of young musicians, in an attempt to give a platform to talented artistes. “The main idea of working on this ensemble piece with young musicians is to help them get together and work under a maestro,” says Gayatri Krishna, managing trustee, Bhoomija. She further adds, “Usually in Carnatic music, every disciple learns under his/her own guru, who have their own way of teaching. But when an assorted group like this works under a maestro, it’s interesting to observe the exchange and what comes out of it.”
July 1, 7 pm. At MLR Convention Centre, JP Nagar. Tickets (Rs 300) on bookmyshow.com
Email: ayeshatabassum@newindianexpress.com
Twitter: @aishatax