Henrietta Barnett School Carnatic Ensemble


Carnatic music is considered one of the oldest systems of music in the world and is a very complex system of music that requires much thought, both artistically and technically.

The basis of carnatic music is the system of ragas (melodic scales) and talas (rhythmic cycles). There are seven rhythmic cycles and 72 fundamental ragas. All other ragas are considered to have originated from these.

One of the ensemble's members, Naviena, began learning carnatic vocal at the age of three under the tutelage of Shrimathi Sugirthakala Kadatcham while her sister, Bhavana, began learning carnatic violin at the age of five from Shrimathi Kalaivani Indrakumar. Over the years they have performed in many carnatic concerts at a wide range of venues, such as the Royal Festival Hall and The Purcell Room.

The piece Mannavan Vanthanadi Thozhi, composed by the veteran South Indian Music Director K V Mahadevan, was scored for the film Thiruvarutchelvar in 1967. This devotional song is set in the classic raga of Kalyani and is sung by the reknown Indian playback singer Pulapaka Susheela.

Director: Katherine Bamber
Leader: Naviena Selvarajah

Age of performers: 16-18

Performing:
Mannavan Vanthanadi Thozhi - K V Mahadevan