Indian percussionist Karaikudi R Mani shares the importance of rhythm

14 Oct 2011
As part of the Simplot International Masterclass Series, acclaimed Indian percussionist Karaikudi R Mani will take up his post as artist-in-residence at the Victorian College of the Arts School of Contemporary Music, University of Melbourne later this month.

As part of the Simplot International Masterclass Series, acclaimed Indian percussionist Karaikudi R Mani will take up his post as artist-in-residence at the Victorian College of the Arts School of Contemporary Music, University of Melbourne later this month.

Director of the VCA Professor Su Baker said the Masterclass Series reinforces the creative energy and spirit of innovation that is much needed in our current complex world. "It is also great to have such support from Simplot Australia."

Karaikudi R Mani will workshop and perform at the VCA with members of his own ensemble along with students from the Contemporary Music Performance stream, culminating in a public concert performance on Friday 28 October.

"Students and staff will gain immensely from Karaikudi R Mani’s experience, professional practice and his overall discipline in the high art of Carnatic rhythmic traditions, improvisation techniques and artistry," said Head of Contemporary Music Performance Alex Pertout.

As one of India’s cultural ambassadors percussionist Karaikudi R Mani, who plays the mridangam (a barrel-shaped double-headed drum), is a leading innovator of South Indian classical music rhythms and artistic director of the internationally acclaimed Sruthi Laya Ensemble.

Over the course of his career Karaikudi R Mani has accompanied all of India’s eminent musicians and travelled widely, earning himself a large following of admirers and students in Europe, the USA, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and Japan.

Public concert with Karaikudi R Mani’When: Friday 28 October, 6.30pm
Where: Room 109, Music Building, 234 St Kilda Rd, Southbank
Program: Ensemble Andes - directed by Alejandro Vargas. Karaikudi R Mani with Suresh and Ensemble Mundo - directed by Alex Pertout.
Admission: Free
Bookings: 03 9035 9199