CARNATIC MUSIC MASTERCLASSES - South India - Suryaprakash Classical Trio

Manodharmam, the art of improvisation - Konnakol, rhythmic solfège - Carnatic violin and melodic expression - CMA 5 and CMA11

Conservatoire Municipal Gabriel Fauré (Paris 5th)

Part of the Charles Munch Conservatory Events programme

This event has ended.

About

The teachers at CMA11: Balakumar Paramalingam (mridangam and konnakol), Senthil Paramalingam (violin), and Dr. R. Suryaprakash (Carnatic vocal) invite you to the

CARNATIC MUSIC MASTERCLASSES,
Conservatoire Gabriel Fauré (CMA 5) – October 12 and 13, 2026
12 rue de Pontoise 75005 Paris

October 12 and 13, 2026

Hours: 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM / 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Information, participation: Conservatoire Gabriel Fauré 01 46 33 97 98 conservatoires5@paris.fr

The program includes three distinct masterclasses:

1. Manodharmam, the art of improvisation – with Dr. R. Suryaprakash
Centered on Manodharmam, the living art of improvisation which constitutes the very essence of the Carnatic tradition, this masterclass offers a privileged immersion into the heart of South Indian classical music and explores the subtlety and richness of a millenary musical language based on oral transmission.

2. Konnakol, rhythmic solfège – with Balakumar Paramalingam
A true grammar of pulsation and rhythmic structure, this discipline allows for mastering the art of complex cycles (talam) by vocalizing percussion. An essential approach to refining one's sense of rhythm, regardless of the instrument played.

3. Carnatic violin and melodic expression – with Senthil Paramalingam
In-depth study of gamakam (the inflections, vibrations, and ornaments that bring each raga to life) and melodic manodharmam. Participants will explore how the violin dialogues closely with the voice, extending the melody like a luminous shadow.

Two Carnatic compositions will be studied during the masterclasses, then performed during the concert on October 14.

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Suryaprakash Classical Trio – Carnatic Music, South India
RESTORATION CONCERT
Auditorium of the Conservatoire Charles Munch (CMA 11) 7, rue Duranti 75011 Paris – Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 7:30 PM

In the vibrant universe of South Indian music, the voice of Dr. R. Suryaprakash rises like an invitation to an inner journey. His music is deeply inhabited by "bhavam," that emotional intensity that gives each raga its life and depth. At his side, Balakumar Paramalingam, master of the mridangam, weaves the rhythmic framework, while the violin of Senthil Paramalingam extends the voice like a luminous shadow. The instruments interweave like three currents of the same sonic river. In this vibrant dialogue, each raga becomes a landscape, each improvisation a journey. A dive into the timeless beauty of Carnatic music.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CMA 11 (class schedules)

Konnakol (Monday): 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM / 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM / 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Carnatic violin (Saturday): 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM / 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Our take on this event

Immerse yourself in the timeless magic of South Indian classical music led by true masters of the tradition. Whether you are eager to master rhythmic vocal percussion or discover the subtle art of melodic improvisation, this masterclass series offers a rare gateway into a profound and sophisticated soundscape.

On October 12 and 13, 2026, the Conservatoire Municipal Gabriel Fauré hosts a series of masterclasses exploring South Indian Carnatic music. Led by the Suryaprakash Classical Trio, the sessions cover vocal improvisation, the rhythmic solfège known as konnakol, and the melodic intricacies of the Carnatic violin. Designed for musicians and enthusiasts, these workshops offer a deep dive into an ancient musical tradition. Attendance is free with open seating, subject to availability. The venue is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring a welcoming environment for all participants in the 5th arrondissement of Paris.

Experience the vibrant traditions of South Indian music during these two days of workshops at the Conservatoire Municipal Gabriel Fauré. Led by Dr. R. Suryaprakash, Balakumar Paramalingam, and Senthil Paramalingam, the program runs from 09:30 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 17:00 on October 12 and 13, 2026.

Participants can engage with three specific disciplines: Manodharmam, which focuses on the art of improvisation; konnakol, the rhythmic grammar used to master complex pulse structures; and the Carnatic violin, highlighting the emotive inflections and ornaments known as gamakam. During the sessions, attendees will study two compositions to be performed at a final concert on October 14 at 19:30 at the Conservatoire Charles Munch.

Participation is free, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The facility at 12 Rue de Pontoise is wheelchair accessible for all attendees.