Parasuraman Sunderrajan (right) with his apprentice Arun Ramamurthi.
Photo courtesy of Parasuraman Sunderrajan
South Indian Carnatic music is considered to be one of the oldest systems of music in the world. Tracing its roots to the ancient Vedas, it has retained its devotional character, reaching its golden age in the late 18th century with the contributions of three saint composers. It was also at this time that the Western violin was incorporated into the South Indian musical tradition. Carnatic violinists use a unique system of tuning and fingering which allows them to play gamakas, or sliding movements between notes, giving the music its characteristic sound. Parasuraman Suderrajan or "Delhi Sunder Rajan," as he is known in musical circles, began studying violin at the age of six and became a child prodigy, giving his first concert at the age of eight. Today he is known to be one of the best violinists in this tradition, performing throughout India, the United States, and Europe. He will teach his technique to Arun Ramamurthi a young man who is already performing at an advanced level for his community in Southern California.
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