By Chelvi
[www.monsoonjournal.com] Before I begin to share my views of the program conducted by “Isaiyarangam” On the 19th of November, should you know that the purpose of the musical concerts “Isaikkethu ellai” is to bring the “rasikas” closer to the classical world of music by presenting more of simplified songs, in understandable language, Tamil, with as much classical touch as possible. The past fourteen “Isaikkethu ellai” programs have proven that “Isaiyarangam” is gradually achieving its goal.
For the very first time, the musical show “Isaikkethu ellai” was staged by a South Indian artist, “Kalaimamani” O.S.Arun. O.S.Arun is one of the foremost vocalists in South India. Coming from a famous musical heritage, O.S.Arun has blossomed into a mature artist whose very own style of blending the Carnatic and Hindustani music, would bound to pull the attention of any audience.
Since Arun has released a Tamil Gazal album “Muthal Paarvaiyil”, with the well-known musician P.B.Srinivas, “Isaikkethu ellai”’s concept was not very new for Arun. He started the show with the theme of “Isaikkethu ellai” and it was enough for the audience to get into the mode for the evening. The first song was “Nilavum Vanum” of raga Hindolam. Hindolam is one of my favorites and Arun brought out the full beauty of Hindolam with his singing. Every single song he performed that evening was full of life and gave the utmost enjoyment to the audience. Whether it is the beautifully written lyrics or the perfectly composed music, it is undeniable that Arun’s performance brought it out to its best.
Arun took Kalyani as the main raga for the evening and the subtleties and nuances of the raga was brought about with dexterity. Every song was dipped in beauty and draped in sophistication while maintaining elegant simplicity. His ornamentations were not overdone. He proved himself as an elegant singer with delicate touch. Arun was clever in not only bringing out the beauty of the songs but also in making the audience enjoy the beauty as well. I am sure that audience not only admired his singing but also his mannerisms. He was very happy to be performing and made it clear many times through out the performance that how inspired he was not just to sing but sing happily. I think Mr.Sornalingam’s ambition for starting such a program, to explain carnatic music in an easy and friendly manner had been fulfilled by Arun’s audience-friendly performance. It is one of the most important aspects that should be adopted by the artists who perform at “Isaikkethu ellai”. Arun has set a very good example for the young, upcoming singers. Those who were present that evening, are very fortunate.
A singer’s performance cannot be successful without the suitable accompaniments. In Arun’s show it was explicit. Violin “Melakkaviri” K.Thyagarajan’s performance left no doubt to the audience of his in-depth knowledge of the art. Mridangam A.V.Manikandan was soft when required and forceful when showcasing his talent. Tabla A.Kirankumar proved his expertise in various ways. The chemistry between the Tablist and Mridangist was obvious and their performance was a delightful treat to the audience. Surendar Chandralingam on Morsing is a young talent and seems to be well on his way to establishing a name for himself. Octopad Raghavan also did a wonderful job. The session between the percussionists, was very interesting. As the pace kept increasing listeners were enthralled and hypnotized by the unique experience. Iyan Collins on Bass guitar did a good job on his part. Even though Raju Raghavan on Sitar played excellently, the microphone did not carry the sound well enough. Last but not least, Fayaz Zavahir on Keyboard did an amazing job. He once again has proven his immense talent.
On the whole, O.S.Arun’s show is a beautiful example of how music would draw the audience closer to the artist when the performance is enjoyed by the artist himself. He has much to give to himself, to music and to the world. We have tasted only a minute portion of his immense talent and still are eagerly awaiting for the full flavor!!!