Episodes

Jun 18, 2009
Jun 18, 2009
12 min
We continue our analysis of Smt. Veena Dhanammal's Raagamalika thanam. We discuss Sri raagam in this episode and Vidya points out some of the salient aspects of this raaga. Specifically, Vidya elaborates on the unique relationship between the rishabham and gandharam notes in Sri Ragam. She also highlights the key difference between the Thyagaraja and Dikshitar schools in handling this raaga.

Jun 8, 2009
Jun 8, 2009
18 min
We continue our analysis of Smt. Veena Dhanammal's Raagamalika thanam. The third and fourth raaga she plays are Arabhi and Sri, respectively. Vidya points out the specific phrases Smt. Veena Dhanammal uses to highlight Arabhi raagam. Vidya also touches upon a couple of key differences between Arabhi and its closely allied raaga, Sama. Finally, we finish this segment by reviewing the transition from Arabhi to Sri.

May 24, 2009
May 24, 2009
16 min

May 11, 2009
May 11, 2009
12 min
In this episode, we delve deeper into the Raagamalika thanam rendition by Smt. Veena Dhanammal. The first raaga she plays is the Raaga Nattai. Vidya elaborates on several important phrases and detailed nuances that Smt. Veena Dhanammal masterfully packed into a one minute snippet.

Apr 27, 2009
Apr 27, 2009
13 min
In the last segment, we heard a veena rendition by Smt. Veena Dhanammal. In this episode, we discuss her life, times, and contributions to the world of Carnatic music. Vidya shares with us additional details regarding the snippet we heard in the last episode - a raagamalika thanam in the five ghana raagas. We also discuss the term “ghana raagas”.

Apr 15, 2009
Apr 15, 2009
15 min
We conclude our two-part series on the Veena in this segment. We discuss the physical structure of the veena, how and where it is made, as well as how it is played. Finally, we share with you a snippet of a thaanam rendition by a very renowned vainika (veena player), Smt. Veena Dhanammal.

Apr 2, 2009
Apr 2, 2009
17 min
In this segment, we feature the Veena, a plucked string instrument unique to Carnatic music. We discuss the revered status given to this instrument in the Hindu tradition. The veena is mentioned in several Carnatic music compositions. Vidya renders a few snippets of compositions that have references to the veena.

Mar 26, 2009
Mar 26, 2009
20 min
In this episode, we would like to share some of the feedback we have been getting so far and answer some of your questions. We also give the answer to the Raaga Quiz: Mukhari vs. Bhairavi featured in Episode 28 and recognize listeners who submitted correct entries. Thanks a lot for all your comments and enthusiastic support. We really appreciate it!

Mar 17, 2009
Mar 17, 2009
17 min
In this episode, we shift the focus to the multiple final segments (Charanams) of the composition. By singing several snippets of this composition, Vidya illustrates its distinct aspects in a detailed fashion. We discuss the rhythmic and melodic structure of this gem. We also define the rhythmic term, “eduppu” and describe the different kinds of “eduppu”.

Mar 7, 2009
Mar 7, 2009
14 min
In this episode we feature a composition by Sri. Oothukaadu Venkatakavi. The composition "Alaavadennaalo", in Raaga Paras, is one of his Saptaratna kritis. We introduce the ragam Paras and mention some well known compositions in this ragam. This is a masterful piece that brings together a deep sense of devotion and humility, superb lyrics, and incredible compositional structure. We discuss in detail the first two segments of this composition (i.e., the Pallavi and the Anupallavi).

