Ganesh (Violin) & Kumaresh (Violin)

Attended concert titled "Aalap-5". This was the concert of famous violinist duo Ganesh (Violin) & Kumaresh (Violin) accompanied by Sankaranarayan (Mridangam) & Trichi Krishnaswamy (Ghatam). This program was organized by India Social and Cultural Center in its facility. I attended the program with Nandu, Jayant, little Gargi & Prakash.

They told a story, which was the theme of the concert, of a student who is attracted to Carnatic music and wants to know what is Carnatic music. He is then introduced to it by the musician. The concert was the journey of this student. An innovative and interesting idea.

Concert started with a short varnam that lasted about 7 minutes. This set the mood of the concert. Second song presented by them was a Tyagaraja Kriti 'Brobaparama'.

Then they played the first Ragam. It was, not often heard, Ragam Nasikabhushani also known as Nasamani. It was followed by Raga pravaham, a wordless composition.

They asked five persons to choose five swars (They fixed Sa and Pa). Audience chose Sa, R2, G2, M2, P, D2, N3 thus creating the notes of Ragam Dharmavati. They then asked if the audience wants Kriti or Ragam Thanam Pallavi (RTP). RTP was the choice of audience. After playing Ragam and Thanam they asked the audience to give them five words and used these words as lyrics to play Pallavi.

Then Ganesh presented a vocal composition "Adi vadi kanna"

Concert ended with grand finale 'Bhagyada Lakshami'

Ganesh & Kumaresh mesmerized the audience. They have awesome command over violin, be it soft or forte. They demonstrated individual, synchronized and sawal jawab violin playing to the satisfaction of audience.

Sankaranarayan's Mridangam was excellent. Trichi Krishnaswamy played very well. But his mike should have had more gain. Both of them drew applause from audience.

The sound system was flawless. Audience was able to clearly hear the soft notes distinctly.

Audience today was very learned. They recognized ragam and compositions without fail. Kumaresh also repraminded some one in audience for talking while artists were playing thereby disturbing them.

A very innovative way of presenting the concert that demonstrates the command and innovation of Ganesh- Kumaresh. It was mind blowing.

Entertainment rating 9.75/10.