R.K. Shriramkumar: A mentor like no other

My guru R.K. Shriramkumar is that rare musician who contains multitudes. He is defined not just by his erudition and virtuosity, but also by his grace, simplicity and warmth. His music is a unique blend of hoary tradition and a finesse that is distinctly his own. His art exemplifies a delicate balance between convention and exploration; pristine, yet unfettered by formulaic rendition, and enchants the commoner and the connoisseur alike.

He has imparted to his disciples not just musical nuances. He breathes the idea that music is not a craft that demands conquest, but a living entity with which one has a beautiful relationship — it is part veneration, part interpretation. He has taught through example that it is to be internalised and made our own. Having imbibed much from the music of the greats, not one class goes by without him reminiscing about their artistry or recounting his learning under them.

R.K. Shriramkumar accompanying Amritha Murali.
| Photo Credit:
SRINATH M

As both a violinist and vocalist, he is a veritable alchemist on stage. Having played for practically every illustrious Carnatic musician, he is an ideal team player who equally supports and inspires. Adhering to the gayaki bani of playing the violin, he believes in shaping every phrase like how one would sing it. Thus, his violin seamlessly blends in like a second voice in a concert, transforming the music into a surreal experience. Even while accompanying his disciples, he treats them as artistes in their own right. He also believes that commitment in presentation should not differ based on the venue or size of the audience.

His acumen in composing, setting lyrics to tune, conceptualising a raga or unravelling the subtleties of a lyrical idea is remarkable. When you merely suggest a raga, a pallavi or a full-fledged tana varnam will spring forth effortlessly! I have had the privilege of witnessing numerous such compositions and tunes unfold.

A voracious reader across subjects — music, spirituality and more, he brings remarkable depth to his lectures. This breadth of knowledge makes his presentations and lecture demonstrations holistic with insightful perspectives. A polyglot, he derives immense joy in literature of all languages — conventional, and contemporary.

As one who takes extraordinary care of his instruments, he spends hours refining their tone and resonance. He nearly shares an emotional bond with each of them!

His sense of aesthetics and a keen eye for detail reflect in everything including his sartorial choices, his enviable collection of paintings, or the way he adorns deities in his puja room at home with flowers. His talents extend to mimicry and story telling as well.

The bhakti, love and humility he has towards his gurus are heartwarming, and worthy of emulation.

I would fail to do justice if I were to describe him only as a musician. As a teacher, he gives himself unconditionally to every student. He is always accessible, a good friend, compassionate listener, and a wonderful guide. Like his music, he makes the people he meets also his own. His demeanour is such that he endears himself to a child and a centenarian with the same ease. His spontaneous joy and love of life make him a friend to all. To me, his mentorship has been and continues to be one of life’s greatest blessings.