Iyer brothers

By Sivapriya Krishnan

Iyer brothers, Ramnath and Gopinath Iyer, the veena duo from Melbourne, have had a career in music and veena spanning fifty years. Disciples of Shrimathi Rajagopalan, R. Pichumani Iyer, Trivandrum Venkatraman, and Rama Ravi,  the brothers  have been playing regularly during the December music season in Chennai.

Their concert at Madhuradhwani during the December season was serene. Steering clear of any gimmickry, they ensured a rendition where songs and ragas received the necessary embellishments, all while adhering to the overarching melody of the raga.

Starting with Saveri varnam, Sarasuda, they elaborated Saraseeruhasanapriya in Nata. Begada was chaste with Tyagarajaya namaste, followed by Gananamosagaradha in Poorvikalyani, which was short and crisp, with all the nuances portrayed well. Bhairavi was meticulously explored, emphasising the lakshana aspects, followed by a tanam before transitioning into Tanayuni Brova. The recital concluded with the Javali in Behag, Saramaina matalentho.

With a wealth of experience, T R Sundaresan, a senior mridangam vidwan, has honed his craft over the years, providing invaluable support to the main artist, particularly attuned to the nuances of the veena. Meanwhile, N. Rajaraman's expertise on the ghatam adds depth to the performance, doubling up with well-executed interludes, creating a thoroughly enjoyable listening experience.

The author is a Carnatic vocalist, writer and management professional