Re: A SAMPLE OF THE GREAT "FINDS" AT CLEVELAND THYAGARAJ ARADHANA 2015

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 20 Apr 2015, 01:22

I intend writing in detail about FOUR of THE MORE THAN A thousand participants in this year's Festival. I attended EVERY EVENT this year.
THIS WAS EASILY THE BEST YEAR FOR THE FESTIVAL SO FAR & I CHALLENGE ANY ONE TO DISCUSS THEIR VIEWS, APPROVALS, AND RESERVATIONS. I intend copying& posting these observations in another section V(the moderator) has WISELY separated them into - which I myself would like titled "TRASH & IGNORANT OBSERVATIONS BY SOME WHO HAVE TRIED TO PROMOTE THEIR OWN CHILDREN & STUDENTS as well as ASSORTED OBSERVATIONS BY THE IGNOROMOUS". Actually in these days of SNOWDEN & WIKILEAKS one has to be stupid to think they are "ANONYMOUS by just having fake names on any site. Actually I have spent time to find out who they are & PITY them for their IGNORANCE & CONDEMN THEM for their UNABASHED LIES...........
First of all NONE OF THE FOUR ARTISTS I am going to write about are relatives, students, or artistes being promoted by me.
Second I am ELATED CLEVELAND has found them & is actively promoting their talents.
THIRD after close to half a century of DISAPPOINTMENT on my part ( I am 81) I am encouraged, enthused, and excited by the TALENT AND ABILITY of so many of today's artistes- BOTH in India & NORTH AMERICA; I am not familiar with other countries myself- & in my view the FUTURE of our arts, culture, dance, and music is indeed very bright and soon will reach the levels of the "GOLDEN AGE" (as defined by the one&only LGJ-MID FORTIES TO MID -SEVENTIES ROUGHLY............
Let me begin by STATING my credentials in this area.
I have been very fortunate to attend, interact & learn from GIANTS in most aspects of our cultural past. My own eldest sister Rajalakshmi was one of the first students in Madras of Parur Sundaram Iyer. My sister's daughter's daughters were in the leading dance groups in the forties& fifties * have won medals & danced before Nehru, president of India as students in Saraswathi Gana Nilayam etc. I have been listening to concerts & attending dance performances from 1949 to 1959 regularly & sporadically since 1959 when I left for USA. Since mid fifties I have attended Western, Jazz performances regularly & been lucky to reside in Manhattan,NYC WHICH ENABLED ME TO ATTEND PERFORMANCES of the greats IN western world also. (TO BE CONTINUED) vkv

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 20 Apr 2015, 01:26

MEDHA HARI------APTLY CALLED "Mesmerizing Medha"
I have been attending Dance performances for over sixty five years in MADRAS & USA. I have been lucky to watch the BEST. After watching her dance in CLEVELAND twice only I have concluded she belongs in the category of Pandanallur Jayalakshmi, Rukmini Arundale, Kamala-Radha, and all the ALL TIME GREATS in OUR DANCE. Her perfection can only be compared to NUREYEV, BERISHNIKOV, PATRICIA MCBRIDE (N.Y.CITY BALLET 'S BALACHINE'S FAVOURITE), AND ALL THE LEADING BALLERINAS OF THE BOLSHOI & KIROV.
She has truly benefitted from our most creative dance& choreography expert MRS. ANITA GUHA who has EXCELLED IN BOTH our dance history as well as western ballet forms and using CHOREAGRAPHIC BRILLIANCE TO ENHANCE& HIGHLIGHT HER BRILLIANCE.
As one who has exhibited at Museum of Modern Art in NYCITY ON CALDER'S MOBILES AS WELL AS OP-ART( IN SIXTIES) INVOLVING DANCE& MOTION I MARVEL at her SUPERB SYMMETRY AS WELL AS FLUIDITY & FOOT WORK THE HALL MARK OF PERFECTION. SHE literally FLOATS! I can easily write a book on her perfection & wish every one would visit her website medhahari.com
I am proud CLEVELAND ARADHANA has brought to us an artist who will be talked about as a great National Treasure soon. VKV

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 20 Apr 2015, 03:58

SAHANA SAMRAJ------"THE DESCENDENT & POSSESSOR OF THE BEST IN CARNATIC MUSIC"
Sahana hails from the family of legendary Sembennar koil Nadaswaram Doyen Vaidyanathan (Sanjay learnt from him) & is BOUND to make the family proud.....Her "NENA RANCHI" took me back to Mankkal Rangarajan's rendering; I was a part of close to twenty five Madras Christian College students who were his fanatic devotees & attended every concert , visited him afterwards etc. He was called Speed Merchant Ray Lindwall of Australia! UNBELIEVABLY even today he has maintained his MUSIC-Was brought to CLEVELAND a few years back.Her "Ramanatham" rendering was on a par with ANYONE I have heard! THE PERFECTION be it Nithanam, balance, SWARA STHANAM & SRUTHi SUDDHAM as well as range & subtelity I have not heard since M.S. & MLV. A born singer. Another Cleveland discovery & so great even when close to twenty. VKV

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 20 Apr 2015, 04:10

SURYA PRAKASH..."THE PERFECT VOICE, MUSICAL EXPERT WITH WIDE KNOWLEDGE, A LEADER IN MMI'S BEST MUSIC, GREAT SCHOLAR"
Suryaprakash is a musician who has raised the bar for GREAT, IMAGINATIVE, & CREATIVE MUSIC WITH A VERY WIDE & CREATIVE REPERTOIRE. It is a pity HIS GENIUS is yet to be recognised for what it is. Happy Cleveland at least is recognising the greatness in his music. His concert emphasizing Papanasm SIVAN'S COMPOSITIONS ( with a MMI STYLE) along with a Pallavi tribute to MSG& TRS were highlights to me. HE is bound to be recognised for his musical abilities.

VKV

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 20 Apr 2015, 04:18

DR.M.NARMADHA..."PERFECTION IN MUSIC AS WELL AS SCHOLARLINESS & PLAYING IN BOTH & SOUTH INDIAN MUSIC"
NARMADHA is VASTLY superior to most persons she is accompanying. ONE who deserves to be recognised as the top violinist today. Glad CLEVELAND had a special session for M.S.G. & GOT HER INVOLVED IN CLOSE TO TWENTY M.S.G. CELEBRATIONS THROUGHOUT THE U.S.A. THE PARUR TRADITION IS IN SAFE HANDS.VKV

kvchellappa · Post by **kvchellappa** » 20 Apr 2015, 09:46

Keep writing, sir. It is absorbing. I like your no-nonsense and forthright style.

munirao2001 · Post by **munirao2001** » 20 Apr 2015, 17:16

VKV Sir,

Vid.Dr.Narmada and Vid.Surya Prakash, no doubt should receive the best of support, but can they be termed as 'Find' in Cleveland Music & Dance Festival-2015? Both of them have been performing and have already received wide recognition for their Vidwath and 'class'. Yes 'mass' recognition is yet to happen. But there are so many Vidwans and Vidushees, who had received recognition for their Vidwath but performing opportunities are denied, including Cleveland Music & Dance Festival. Fortunately, they get performing opportunities in AIR, DD and SVBC. Otherwise they live and practice the art in ignominy.

Event Managers must form broad based committees and audition boards for the recognition of merits and give equal opportunities along with the established 'popular & meritorious' artists with dedication and commitment. When this is put in to practice over period of time, truly the 'Golden Age' will be in continuum and Indian Classical Music and Dance will achieve its well deserved status of greatest of arts, Globally.

munirao2001

Sundara Rajan · Post by **Sundara Rajan** » 20 Apr 2015, 19:50

I agree with Mr. Munirao that SUryaprakAsh and Narmada are not "new finds" by Cleveland, since they have been in the concert circuits for more than a decade with excellent reviews. Ever since I listened to SUryaprakAsh for the first time in 2001 in Shastri Hall, I have been his fan and did not miss any opportunity to hear him. I did listen to him in yesterday's webcast in pAAlam TV also. I first listened to Narmada accompanying young Sowmya in New Jersey some twenty years ago and she also has been well received by reviewers around the world. Thus the two are NOT new finds by Cleveland; but there have been many other "new finds "
I am sure Mr.Munirao did not mean that artists who have not had opportunities " live and practice in IGNOMINY ", but that he only meant "unrecognized" !

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 20 Apr 2015, 20:37

I INCLUDED THEM because of my FRUSTRATION in their NOT getting the RECOGNITION compared to their proven abilities & talents.
For example when I was involved in MMI CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS TVS was not available & SURYAPRAKASH who was quite willing found it hard (I had arranged for four years programs in Ragasudha Hall hoping to raise awareness of MMI tho' there are close to infinite number of Sabhas in Madras that held useless celebrations as TOKEN) to exhibit his KNOWLEDGE & DEPTH. Fortunately VENUGOPAL (son of Chitti Sundararajan) has continued a MMI MADDIES CLUB WHICH MEETS REGULARLY.
I am not sticking to Dictionary definitions but ACTUALITY of DESERVING CASES NOT GETTING IT though MANY knowledgeable listeners correctly point out the two-S.P.& M.N.- are known entities they are NOT in the TOP & hoping to elicit responses & opinions from rasikas (as opposed to TRASH from a guy who is well known to persons trying to find out who it is).
Having learnt from MMI CENTENARY efforts I along with many others were able to celebrate because of the FORESIGHT of CLEVELAND SUNDARAM the TALENTS & CONTRIBUTIONS OF MSG & I managed to arrange more than 20 MSG CELEBRATIONS AROUND USA BECAUSE of the potent & latent desires of the public. In India if efforts by me, vvs or mn are excluded the total in WHOLE OF INDIA IS A BIG FAT ZERO. Between us the total may be less than five.
I am hoping if persons can DISCUSS this sorry state of affairs & correct it to the extent possible. I distinctly remember the Madras Sabhas WERE FORCED to recognise & include programs by MMI due to public pressure.. Like most creative artists he was content to sing free in Temples etc when the "hallowed" but HOLLOW Madras Institutions starting with M.A. were not willing to allow opportunities; However M.A. did have MMI sing in December Season he sang EVERY YEAR from 1927 (till he died) every year.
It is in this sense I include them in Cleveland finds....VKV

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 20 Apr 2015, 20:49

munirao2001 wrote:VKV Sir
Event Managers must form broad based committees and audition boards for the recognition of merits and give equal opportunities along with the established 'popular & meritorious' artists with dedication and commitment. When this is put in to practice over period of time, truly the 'Golden Age' will be in continuum and Indian Classical Music and Dance will achieve its well deserved status of greatest of arts, Globally.
munirao2001

I can tell you that CLEVELAND is a VOLUNTEER DRIVEN FESTIVAL & EVERY ONE IS ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE, HELP, CRITIQUE AS WELL AS EXPRESS THEIR VIEWS. ULTIMATELY THESE THINGS BOIL DOWN TO THE ONES WHO ACTUALLY DO THE WORK & BELIEVE ME THERE ARE HEATED EXCHANGES & EFFORTS TO CHANGE MINDS ETC. EVERY suggestion received is seriously explored & the FINAL DECISIONS REVOLVE AROUND: Artist Availabilty, DEMANDS& Requirements, and other PRACTICAL matters. VKV

munirao2001 · Post by **munirao2001** » 21 Apr 2015, 11:17

Sundara Rajan Sir,

I am sure Mr.Munirao did not mean that artists who have not had opportunities " live and practice in IGNOMINY ", but that he only meant "unrecognized" !

. I meant only live and practice in ignominy. Many of the deserving artists do get recognition of the discerning rasikas and very few exceptions of event managers. Performing artists consider true recognition reflected in their performances being listened, well received and appreciated, as highest factor in their satisfaction. All the other matters are secondary. Its very simple and evident if you consider artists with AIR grading of TOP and lack of opportunities, year after year, leave aside the other artists with lesser grading. 'Class' Vs 'Mass' and 'Popular' Vs 'Meritorious' challenge is from time immemorial, in the practice of patrons, event managers and rasikas. It is a very serious malady and needs corrective action by the rasikas and event managers in the interest of growth and development of performing arts. Reading the reviews being posted in the AIR concerts by the discerning rasikas of our forum and also watching the telecast by DD and SVBC, every one can understand this serious problem of total disregard and utter neglect.

munirao2001 · Post by **munirao2001** » 21 Apr 2015, 11:30

VKV Sir,

My knowledge and understanding, in general, it is not Artist availability-except the popular, but decisions are made on 'demands, requirements and practical' by the powerful, influential and opinion makers, to lesser extent. Rest of them being 'Yes Master' driven by their own reasons and motives.

munirao2001

Sundara Rajan · Post by **Sundara Rajan** » 21 Apr 2015, 19:25

Sri Munirao: I still hope that you did not mean that they live in ignominy for, ignominy means "public shame, disgrace,dishonor etc. " They may not get opportunities, but that doesn't mean they have to live in shame /disgrace/dishonor !

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 21 Apr 2015, 20:59

munirao2001 wrote:VKV Sir,
My knowledge and understanding, in general, it is not Artist availability-except the popular, but decisions are made on 'demands, requirements and practical' by the powerful, influential and opinion makers, to lesser extent. Rest of them being 'Yes Master' driven by their own reasons and motives.
munirao2001

I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU HAVE WRITTEN. CAN YOU BE MORE DOWN TO EARTH & ELABORATE? VKV

munirao2001 · Post by **munirao2001** » 22 Apr 2015, 17:23

Sundara Rajan Sir,

Meaning for ignominy is also for humiliation, embarrassment, indignity and mortification. Artists of merits did live in the past, living in the present and very likely to live in the future, unless meritocracy is given the primacy by all the stakeholders of performing arts, in India. My choice is always for the right word to convey the feelings.

munirao2001

munirao2001 · Post by **munirao2001** » 22 Apr 2015, 17:41

VKV Sir,
My knowledge and understanding of the challenges and critical issues are based on:
1. Artists Availability- Only pertains to popular and in demand. With so many AIR TOP & A graded artists, availability is never a problem.
2. Event Manager(s) who wield the power and influence take the decisions, endorsed by all the others, with ulterior motive(s). Similar to the political organizations in India in many other Nations, the decision is by the High Command.
3. To change and achieve excellence in the event management, the audition committee and Program Executive committee with members of proven expertise with support by the management committee is the solution.

Sir, as few of forumites have expressed that I must be brief, I had to be most conscious and choosy.

munirao2001

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 22 Apr 2015, 22:12

munirao2001 wrote:VKV Sir,
My knowledge and understanding of the challenges and critical issues are based on:
1. Artists Availability- Only pertains to popular and in demand. With so many AIR TOP & A graded artists, availability is never a problem........
HOW DO YOU DEFINE "popular" & in demand". Can you give a brief REPRESENTATIVE LIST. I want your honest opinion as CLEVELAND COMMITTEE spends the entire year on this subject. I REQUEST others to write their own list. Of course the final choosing is based on the VOLUNTEER COMMITTEE'S VOTES. I promise to investigate myself any artist whose name is mentioned in this thread. I cannot promise their being invited as I AM ONE of close to twenty involved.
2. Event Manager(s) who wield the power and influence take the decisions, endorsed by all the others, with ulterior motive(s). Similar to the political organizations in India in many other Nations, the decision is by the High Command...........
DO YOU INCLUDE CLEVELAND THYAGARAJA ARADHANA COMMITTEE in the above category? I can answer only questions& facts about this.
3. To change and achieve excellence in the event management, the audition committee and Program Executive committee with members of proven expertise with support by the management committee is the solution........PLEASE ELABORATE & BE PRACTICAL. As for as CLEVELAND MEMBERS ARE WORLD WIDE & MEET IF AT ALL ONCE A YEAR IN CLEVELAND!
Sir, as few of forumites have expressed that I must be brief, I had to be most conscious and choosy.....THIS IS FREE FORUM & I find you are one of the FEW who cares & takes the time. YOU CAN WRITE ALL YOU WANT!.....VKV
munirao2001

munirao2001 · Post by **munirao2001** » 23 Apr 2015, 11:23

VKV Sir,
I am grateful for the encouragement and your serious consideration for the change for growth and development. I am submitting the clarifications sought, as given below:
1. Popular and In demand : Artists who have given experience of pleasure to the rasikas and rasikas wanting to have recall pleasure or new experience; whose very name attracts full house and maximum collection for the ticketed events; Patrons, Corporate, Media representatives and event managers derive satisfaction of maximum numbers of rasikas attending and identified as a successful event; success contribution ownership;very rarely, critical review of the merits and performance (s).

2. CTAC ( I would prefer to name it Cleveland Music & Dance Festival-CM&DF or Performing Arts Festival-CPAF): You have already informed that decisions are based on the volunteer committee's votes. Beyond this information, I am not aware of the process and management system. My genuine concern is many of the meritorious artists are not being given equal opportunities.

3. Audition Committee: Annual Festivals event management must have A.C. consisting of artists/person(s) of proven merits- One/two Musician(s); Musicologist/Scholar;Media Representative-Critic; Patron; Event Manager; Rasika. Grading/Rating to done of artists-established practitioners; Promising and up coming;immensely talented, new talent. Grading/Rating receiving acceptance and respect will encourage and motivate for higher achievement, in continuum.

4. Program Executive Committee: Selection of the final list for the Year/Event/Festival out of A.C. graded/rated artists. Program content, production and execution.

5. Communication and Decision making: With internet access;Skype;Conferencing facilities, location and distances is a minor issue.

With your proven expertise and meritorious contribution, you will appreciate the intent, content and delivery issues I have raised, free from pride and prejudice.

munirao2001

munirao2001 · Post by **munirao2001** » 24 Apr 2015, 15:44

VKV Sir,
On reading my post, I realized I had not given the 'Artists Popular & In Demand-Representative List'.
Representative list-1.Vidu.Smt.Aruna Sairam 2. Vidu.Smt.Sudha Raghunath 3. Vidu.Smt.Bombay Jayashree 4. Vidu.Nithyashree 5. Vid.Sanjay Subramanian. 6.Vid.T.M.Krishna 7.Vid.Abhishek Raghuram 8. Vid.Unnikrishnan.

munirao2001

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 24 Apr 2015, 21:38

munirao2001 wrote:VKV Sir,
On reading my post, I realized I had not given the 'Artists Popular & In Demand-Representative List'.
Representative list-1.Vidu.Smt.Aruna Sairam 2. Vidu.Smt.Sudha Raghunath 3. Vidu.Smt.Bombay Jayashree 4. Vidu.Nithyashree 5. Vid.Sanjay Subramanian. 6.Vid.T.M.Krishna 7.Vid.Abhishek Raghuram 8. Vid.Unnikrishnan.
munirao2001

In your list 2) & 7) performed in Cleveland.I SUSPECT Malladi Bros, Sowmya, O.S.T. ALSO PERFORMED & OTHERS IN YOU LIST ALSO HAVE PERFORMED IN PREVIOUS YEARS.
I will ANSWER YOUR PREVIOUS POST SOON AGAIN THO' IS HAS BEEN ADDRESSED BY ME AT LEAST TEN TIMES OVER THE YEARS.
I CAN ADD WE ARE PRESENTING OVER 1000 PERSONS (MUSIC& DANCE INCLUDING THOSE WHO TAKE PART IN COMPETITIONS) . THIS IS A PARTICIPATORY FESTIVAL WHERE THE EMPHASIS IS ON THE FUTURE WITH PRESENT & PAST NOT BEING NEGLECTED. IT IS QUITE UNLIKE THE ONES ANNUALLY IN INDIA.VKV

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 24 Apr 2015, 21:51

cacm wrote:
munirao2001 wrote:VKV Sir,
On reading my post, I realized I had not given the 'Artists Popular & In Demand-Representative List'.
Representative list-1.Vidu.Smt.Aruna Sairam 2. Vidu.Smt.Sudha Raghunath 3. Vidu.Smt.Bombay Jayashree 4. Vidu.Nithyashree 5. Vid.Sanjay Subramanian. 6.Vid.T.M.Krishna 7.Vid.Abhishek Raghuram 8. Vid.Unnikrishnan.
munirao2001
In your list 2) & 7) performed in ClevelandTHIS YEAR. Malladi Bros, Sowmya, O.S.T. (likely members of your list)ALSO PERFORMED & OTHERS IN YOUR LIST (except may be Bombay Jayashree- I will not go onto details) ALSO HAVE PERFORMED IN PREVIOUS YEARS.
I will ANSWER YOUR PREVIOUS POST SOON AGAIN THO' IT HAS BEEN ADDRESSED BY ME AT LEAST TEN TIMES OVER THE YEARS.
I CAN ADD WE ARE PRESENTING OVER 1000 PERSONS (MUSIC& DANCE INCLUDING THOSE WHO TAKE PART IN COMPETITIONS) WITH A BUDGET CLOSE TO 250K US DOLLARS with over 175 artists from India (YOU CAN CALCULATE WHAT Hall expenses, travel, transportation, visa, artist compensations, food & lodging costs can be by just GOOGLING.
THIS IS A PARTICIPATORY FESTIVAL WHERE THE EMPHASIS IS ON THE FUTURE WITH PRESENT & PAST NOT BEING NEGLECTED BUT RECOGNISED & HONOURED. IT IS QUITE UNLIKE THE ONES ANNUALLY HELD IN INDIA.
PADMA BHUSHAN SMT. SUDHA RAGHUNATHAN FLEW IN & PERFORMED RIGHT AFTER RECEIVING THE TITLE AS DID PROF. E.C.G.SUDHARSAN a few years back when he flew more than 24 hours straight from the ROSE GARDENS in Rashrapathi Bhavan in DELHI where president ABDUL KALAM had INSISTED on releasing his latest book. THE AMOUNT OF SACRIFICE ON THE PART OF famous guests is equal (if not more) to the organisers & participants. VKV

arasi · Post by **arasi** » 25 Apr 2015, 01:58

VKV and Munirao,
I do not wish to interfere in your conversation, but I do want to share my thoughts on the history of the Cleveland ArAdhanA. Though I have been on the fringe, watching what I call the Cleveland phenomenon over the years, I feel involved and appreciate that this chapter in the history of CM happened.

All the results we see, did not stem from an organizational master plan. It all happened spontaneously, little drops gathering momentum, and over the years becoming a full fledged stream--all done with an overpowering desire on the part of individuals (music lovers) for bringing and nourishing CM on our shores.

Just as the Mahathma and other freedom fighters did not plan anything in detail, sitting around a table, drawing strategies. They just acted on their great thirst for freedom which was welling up in them. They didn't resort to offices, files, agendas and an office staff. They garnered the spirit of the people by action to realize their dreams. Later, I don't think Vinoba did anything but walk to the villages to ask for bhUdAn.

Bharathi asked in his verses for the people to donate whatever they had for the country--the wealthy their funds, the able bodied their service and so on. Their spirit just took over...

Times have changed of course, and everything needs to be and is recorded, broadcast and communicated.
Cleveland also has to deal with all the practicalities in this modern day. Has to plan, execute them, and feel responsible for every action it takes to run the festival. Be responsible in bringing musicians from India, fending fori them when they are here...

What I'm trying to convey is that the dynamics are different in India (but for a few exceptions, may be).

Committees, ad hoc committees and so on are almost indispensable there, it seems. It's not that things are pulled out of the thin air here, but the mode of achieving goals are different, I think.

VKV, correct me if I am wrong. The spirit is the premise here. Not the structure. There may be a few exceptions (not that I know of), but titles and attaching importance to them, and ego trips hadn't got many music organizations in this part of the world anywhere near the Cleveland phenomenon in the past fifty years. It's the fervor, dedication and some individuals' tremendous efforts which has brought about this phenomenon which is the Cleveland ArAdhanA and festival...

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 25 Apr 2015, 02:19

Dear Arasi,
THANKS for sharing your eloquence in describing the CLEVELAND PHENOMENON better than any one I can think of. YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY CORRECT IN YOUR DESCRIPTION. Though a scientist by trade I can clearly see & appreciate what a creative composer can do! Actually you are very correct in pointing out that " The spirit is the premise here. Not the structure". When I see VVS SPEAK FROM THE PODIUM WELCOMING THE CHIEF GUEST one moment (USUALLY A VVIP)ONLY TO REVERT TO THE ROLE OF A VIDEOGRAPHER next moment it is very inspiring to me. This is true of EVERY ONE of the countless volunteers. My proudest moment was when after welcoming the Indian Ambassador from the podium I went to my stall just outside the Auditorium to sell S.RAJAM'S CLASSIC BOOK ON South Indian Music. In my opinion this TYPIFIES the whole Festival. Were else can one see a famous scientist be a driver picking up the baggage & the artist from the airport?...It has to be seen to be believed. VKV

munirao2001 · Post by **munirao2001** » 25 Apr 2015, 11:17

Arasi

With focus on the TOP leadership, the fact of Organizers/Managers is not taken note in the outset. With deep study, all the other factors are known and established. All the persons who formed the scaffolding, structure and the edifice will be recognized. I am reminded of 1. Shakespeare-'There is Method in Madness' and G.D.Birla ' Yes, Mahatma (Gandhi) is simple. I had to bankroll lakhs to keep him simple'. In Cleveland Thyagaraja Araadhana, VVK Sir has already shared with us who were GDB's.

Every thinking and actions will have a plan, actions-execution, empathy, spirit, formal or informal. Emotions-Spirit is the driver, not suffice but right thinking and right action will only lead to results and success. Success is studied. Lessons learnt. Informal is strengthened with formal-Organization and Management. Goal of higher achievement, of excellence, is made possible by planning, Organization and Management. Music Academy of Chennai is the classic case and good case study.

When I communicate my idea and suggestions, it is in recognition of the spirit and actions but with desire for professional management of one of the great organizational activity-Cleveland Thyagaraja Araadhana.

munirao2001

arasi · Post by **arasi** » 25 Apr 2015, 19:27

Munirao,
Since you specifically address me, I have to respond--not that I know much about organizations (except running a household--that too to the extent I possibly can

...and you know that.

I did not say it's the spirit alone which carries out the ArAdhanA. The spirit is the core of it. You and I grew up in a value system which went ahead with doing what good it intended to do--without making it all seem like corporate planning and execution of it.

Yes, times have changed, and the Cleveland ArAdhanA is changing too, in a way to harmonize with present times.

How has it not changed? The hospitality part, for example. Where a hundred people were fed on the ArAdhanA day, count it as a thousand and more now--and the care which has been put into it hasn't changed an iota. It may be a mass production, but the care and personal touch about it hasn't changed.

To us naive vidEShis, the sabhA scene in Chennai is daunting. Even glimpses into it for me as a concert goer has enough goings on to observe. What a tough place it is for the arts to survive! Wheels within wheels, strings to pull! This observation is from someone who has not tried to curry any favors, being a mere rasikA. I have been around halls for hours on end during, before and after concerts the past so many years to get an idea of how complicated it all is.

I agree. Any big undertaking needs to have good planning and the execution of its goals. I do not dispute that. It is the core of its existence I'm wondering about. Its intent, its dreams...ah! Chennai is saturated in its own tradition of being there for ages, feeling that it knows best, and that it is in charge. Yes, there are exceptions, of course.

I don't think I should be carrying coal to New Castle. You may have a story or more to tell yourself

As for this thread, I realize that I am in a territory where I do not have the expertise to discuss things. All that I know is that Cleveland IS a phenomenon, one such feat which is part of any immigrant history, that's all...

Sundara Rajan · Post by **Sundara Rajan** » 25 Apr 2015, 21:06

This exchange of ideas/concepts has dragged long enough. We know where we stand. Let us now get back to talk in this thread about upcoming artists who deserve recognition and support from organizations and rasikas .

kvchellappa · Post by **kvchellappa** » 26 Apr 2015, 08:42

Is there not another thread for it?

arasi · Post by **arasi** » 26 Apr 2015, 20:40

Sundararajan,
Thank you for calling a halt to the discussion which was taking us away from the intent of this thread. I did the right thing after that. Having heard part of Sahana Samraj's concert on live streaming with many interruptions (though I was impressed no end then), I thought I should do a better job of it. Late last night, I sat down as if in a concert, and listened to her. What a delight her singing is!

The opener, nAsikA bhUshaNi (nAsikA maNi) Sri ramA sarasvathi roped me in. The sweetness in her voice is deep and rich. The bhAvam can be felt in her svaram singing just as much.

Then the kEdAragaowLa rAgA was moving. Kamalakiran and the able mrudangam player Kapilan were just as appreciative all along, and displayed it in their wholehearted support. sAmikku sari evarE, a gem in its own right got royal treatment.

Yes, that neneruncinAnu was an exercise in super speed singing a la MaNAkkAl!

PanthuvarALi rAgA and rAmanAtham bhajEham would have made Ari chuckle and Puchi soar! Agree with VKV totally. The way she managed the mega song in right proportions was admirable. What an instinctively
geared song bird she is! With all the work she put into it, she sounded effortless.

In that, she can be compared to an MS in her twenties, thirties? Her vaDavaraiyai mathAkkki, vAsukiyai nANAkki was just that. No impersonator of the great one, but genuine stuff! I realize the reason for VKV's zeal about Sahana's singing. She is incredible.

It's just the beginning. The way she has become what she is now from last year when we heard her (which itself was something) is praiseworthy. From what VVS said, she is totally committed to her music, practices
hard, and is also learning from veteran Suguna Varadachari. Yes, a veritable star who should shine on the firmament of CM in the future. God bless her...

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 27 Apr 2015, 08:07

Dear Arasi,
YOU have expressed the feelings as well as assessment & analysis I would have written about Sahana Samraj's concert if I could! But I am not Arasi (THE QUEEN!). VERY WELL EXPRESSED & WRITTEN........
A couple of years back I was house guest at VVS'S house when I heard a Thambura around 5 A.M. & A VOICE THAT captivated me. I woke up & listened to the pratice session of Sahana Samraj which lasted close to a couple of hours. I was truly captivated & got up every day to attend the practice sessions. I had heard MMI & MSS describe their methods& practice which still excites me just the thought of it! Finally I heard some one just practising so SINCERELY & it was amazing to hear the PURE music she produced....I learnt from VVS of her Musical heritage and the fact that she was already called Mayavaram MS & HAD INNUMERABLE CONCERTSin that knowledgeable region she was performing in! In many respects Arasi has hit the nail on the head when she wrote" In that, she can be compared to an MS in her twenties, thirties". I felt right away that way about Sahana. Actually there are several facts& factors which to me made look at Sahana in precisely the fashion Arasi has described. I feel that if she is given the proper encouragement & ACCEPTANCE by the Rasikas & ESPECIALLY THE MADRAS SABHAS I feel she is in my mind an artist who can reach GREAT HEIGHTS in musical acheivements. I was lucky to do a little in the case of TVS who took the Carnatic Music World in 1971 by storm in his maiden tour of N.A. when he developed an almost a cult following during that tour himself. VVS has provided all the requirements that are needed for her EXTRA-ORDINARY TALENT with FULL COMMITMENT in terms of getting Mrs Suguna Varadhachari to guide her in terms of musical traditions etc & let us hope we are witnessing right before our eyes another MEGA SUPER STAR IN THE CARNATIC MUSIC FIRMAMENT. JUST THAT PROSPECT ALONE EXCITES ME NO END.......VKV

vasanthakokilam · Post by **vasanthakokilam** » 27 Apr 2015, 08:41

Arasi, VKV, excellent report on Sahana Samraj. I guess I have some claim to call her 'namma Ur poNNu' ( 'our girl' ), I trace my 'sonDa Ur' (native place ) to 10 KM W of Mayiladuthurai and she is from 10 KM east of there. Just kidding,...Great to hear the news. Already it feels like a great story is in the making.

Ramasubramanian M.K · Post by **Ramasubramanian M.K** » 27 Apr 2015, 17:32

Just FYI. Sahana Samraj was awarded the KSM Family Trust Scholarship in KGS(for 2014-15)--instituted by our family in loving memory of my father--the late K.S.Mahadevan.

She was one of the finalists selected by KGS for the award and she was kind enough to come and present a song for myself and my brother in Chennai a couple of months back. We were impressed not only with her talent but with her innate natural humility and ardor.Such out-of-town artists need lots of encouragement and we hope the Chennai Sabhas give her the opportunity.
Ofcourse the Cleveland organisation beat us all in its recognition because she had been to Cleveland the previous year!!! No surprise here!!

It used to be that artistes first made their mark in Chennai and got recognised and then they were invited overseas for participation.Now VVS and Co have reversed the trend!!!!
May their tribe increase!!!!!

cacm · Post by **cacm** » 27 Apr 2015, 21:56

Dear MKR,
CONGRAGULATIONS. I am glad she is being recognised with an award connected with your illustrious father. She was unearthed by none other than VVS & has been coming to Cleveland for a few years-for teaching, to sing in dances etc- on a fairly regular basis. I suspect she will be coming to NEXT year's CLEVELAND FESTIVAL. IT will be nice if various US Organisations can arrange her concert with local accompanists. PL contact: [email protected] if you are interested. VKV

shankarank · Post by **shankarank** » 10 May 2016, 09:38

I finally chanced upon Sahana Samraj - Parivadini telecast : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=afrgVxix-Zs. She sings with a spine!! Just JagadA and nAmorAla are good enough to convince me. This refreshing feeling I get is because of things I miss in the YACM era artistes - the freedom shown at the kArvais and Akarams ( that let go thing) - essentially a comfort with layam - at the same time without too much rambling.

Of-course as an upcoming artiste - one has to pardon the slip ups to enjoy the rest.

Hope Sahana gets to sing with more experienced and popular Mridangam accompaniments soon.

I think I know what Dr VKV is talking about.

kvchellappa · Post by **kvchellappa** » 10 May 2016, 16:24

nice.

arasi · Post by **arasi** » 11 May 2016, 04:31

Yes, those who haven't heard her yet (in India at least), can follow the Cleveland festival, and catch her sing with her younger sister this time. I remember VVS announcing that the festival will be aired on Kalaignar TV, in June. At least, that's how I heard it. I am hoping Chellappa and others will tune in then.

kvchellappa · Post by **kvchellappa** » 11 May 2016, 08:31

I heard her sleepily when she sang in Cleveland. Will look for the telecast. Thanks.

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