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Carnatic Music, also renowned as Karnataka Sangitam, is an ancient form of classical music that dates back around 2500 years. Carnatic music is extremely melodious. The primary performances are mainly vocal but instrumental performances are also an integral part. The culturally rich country is also the seat of south Indian classical music and dances and therefore is the perfect city to host the Carnatic Music Festival during the months of December and January. The long music season in Chennai is celebrated at different venues all over the city by many voluntary organizations and cultural groups. The Carnatic Music Festival in Chennai was started in 1927 to commemorate the grand opening of the Madras Music Academy and since then has been an important part of the cultural scenario of Chennai. Initially only vocal recitals were the main performances but with time, dance dramas have also been introduced in the curriculum. Features of Carnatic Music Festival in Chennai - The Carnatic Music Festival uses as its venue the many auditoriums, heritage villas and bungalows. Professional artists from all corners of the country are invited to stage their performances. The beginners are also welcomed and encouraged. - With the Carnatic Music Festival in Chennai reaching national and international repute, around 300 concerts are arranged in the city with the number of participants adding up to 2000. - Among the musical performances at the Carnatic Music Festival, the famous ones include songs in regional languages like Tamil, Telegu and Kannada. Instrumental performances include the use of Veena, flute, Nagaswaram, Mridangam, Ghatam. The performers sit on a slightly elevated stage for the audience to enjoy a great view. - After Chennai, the greatest musical extravaganza then changes its base to Tiruvaiyaru to celebrate the birth of Thyagaraja- a maestro in the field of Carnatic Music. - The Carnatic Music Festival in Chennai acquires a special place in the heart of the city people. The awesome performances are greatly acknowledged by people well versed in Carnatic music. Performances by celebrated performers are highly enjoyed and often the performances are based on the choice of the audience.
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