Srirangam R. Kannan was a distinguished vocalist and an eminent scholar of Carnatic music. His exceptional prowess as a performer and musicologist left an indelible mark on the world of Indian classical music. Teaching as a Professor at Banaras Hindu University, he was a beacon of Carnatic music in the Hindustani music belt, where he seamlessly blended different percussive styles into his performances. Known for his soulful renditions of "Bhakti Sangeet," Kannan captivated audiences across India, singing flawlessly in multiple languages.
Early Life
Born on June 15, 1924, in Thiruppappaliyur, Tamil Nadu, Srirangam R. Kannan was destined for a musical journey. Initiated into music at the tender age of eight by his illustrious father, Vidwan Rajam Iyengar, he chose a path of dedication and discipline over typical childhood pastimes. His rigorous training under legends like Sangeet Kalanidhi Kumbakonam Rajamanickem Pillai, Musiri Subramanya Iyer, and others at the prestigious Music Academy of Madras laid a strong foundation for his illustrious career. Supported by veteran violinists and mridangam maestros, Kannan gave his first stage performance at nineteen and never looked back.
Career
Although he established himself as a stellar performer, Srirangam R. Kannan's passion for teaching led him to Banaras Hindu University. Starting as a Lecturer and eventually becoming a Reader, he invigorated the spirit of Carnatic music among his students and peers. Kannan maintained the highest traditions of shruti (pitch) and laya (rhythm), earning admiration from experts and laymen alike. His humility and simplicity endeared him to many, making him a cherished figure in musical circles.
Kannan authored two significant works: "Tyagaraja Kruti Sangrah" and "Muthuswami Dikshita Kruti Sangrah," the latter being translated into Hindi with notations in the Bhatkhande system. A top-ranking artist of All India Radio since 1945, Kannan's radio programs and recordings like "Sangeet Vivechan" were highly popular. His contributions extended to advisory roles and numerous vocal concerts nationwide, showcasing his fluent and efficient Hindi.
Family
Srirangam R. Kannan hailed from a prestigious musical family. His father, Vidwan Rajam Iyengar, was a distinguished artist, and his mother, Smt. Rajalakshmi, was a patron of music. Married to Smt. K. Saroja, Kannan had two sons who followed in his musical footsteps. His elder son, Dr. R. K. Srinivasan, is a renowned flute artist, while his younger son, R. K. Govindrajan, is a celebrated vocalist and a leader in All India Radio's Commercial Broadcasting Service.
Awards and Recognitions
Srirangam R. Kannan's contributions to music earned him numerous accolades:
- Gold Medal in the open competition held by the Madras Music Academy in 1945.
- Best Junior Musician awarded by the Madras Sangeet Natak Academy.
- Certificate of Merit and TTK Memorial Award from the Music Academy, Madras.
- Top Rank by the Music Audition Board of All India Radio, New Delhi.
- *Cultural Scholarship from the Government of India in Carnatic Music.
- *Suswara Gana Mani Virudu awarded by His Holiness Jagatguru Kanchi Shankaracharya Swamy Jayendra Saraswati ji Maharaj.
Recordings on Media
- "Dasa-Sahitya" (1984) - Sangeetha Studio, Chennai.
- "Devi-Kriti Mala" (1986) - Sangeetha Studio, Chennai.
Srirangam R. Kannan's legacy as a maestro and a scholar of Carnatic music continues to inspire and enthrall music lovers around the world. His dedication to his craft and his ability to blend different musical traditions have left a lasting impact on the world of Indian classical music.