CHENNAI: When Kadri Gopalnath introduced a new instrument called the Saxophone, years ago, to Carnatic music, he enchanted listeners with his technical expertise and raga conception in handling the instrument. He disproved the theory of a ‘nine-day wonder’, and is still continuing to top the charts in popularity.At the concert held at Narada Gana Sabha, Kadri Gopalnath began the Saxophone recital in raga Bahudari (Janyam of Harikhambodhi) and took up Bhaja Manasa composed by Thulasivanam. The pattern of swaras had a progression in terms of enticing rhythmic models. It was evident that he was exploring to achieve the noble dimension of self-enjoyment and spiritual quest.With pleasing ingredients, he moved on to raga Aarabhi (Sadhinchene) of Thyagaraja Pancharatnam with presentation on predictable lines, and by maintaining virtuosity. His rendition of raga Karaharapriya and Chakkaniraja of Thyagaraja was explored with abundant swaras. He concluded with a bhajan, the inevitable (Kurai Ondrum Illai). However, the artiste could have experimented with new challenges in presentation of the ragas by taking up new kritis, instead of harping on the known kritis of his choice, in order to avoid monotony. Kanyakumari (violin), with her enriched artistry, highlighted the niraval and swara essays with considerable elan. The tone fullness of saxophone, coupled with the compactness of the tavil by maestro Haridwaramangalam AK Palanivel, revealed refined intuition. Bangalore Amrit (kanjra) and Bangalore Rajasekar (morsing) accompanied the rhythmic ensemble.
Comments
0 comment