Percussion at its best

Vivid sounds

The reason is, many renowned artistes are performing there as part of the 48th Bengaluru Ganesh Utsava, organised by Shri Vidyaranya Yuvaka Sangha. The well-known percussionist Sivamani performed here recently and entertained a huge gathering for more than two hours.

Thousands of music lovers, who gathered at the college grounds, were eagerly looking forward to witness Sivamani's performance. When the renowned drummer entered the stage in a white costume, people cheered him with a big round of applause and Sivamani asked people Namaskaarri, Chennagiddira?

The ace percussionist was accompanied by Stephen on keyboard, Balabhaskar on violin and Giridhar Udupa on ghatam. It was a treat for the eyes as well as ears as the maestros created magic out of music.

Music buffs here were taken to an entirely different world when they performed without a breather. Sivamani, for whom rhythm translates into contrasting sounds, performed using more than 15 instruments. The first half saw an ensemble of different types of musical instruments. The sounds from all these instruments merged to create a rhythm and melody which was a pleasant experience.

“Hegittu? Enjoyed?,” Sivamani asked the music lovers in between and the audience responded with a ‘Yes’. He encouraged the gathering to sing with him.  In the second half, the troupe played some  popular songs like Dil Hai Chota Sa, title song of Kal Ho Na Ho and many more. The audience went crazy and started humming the lyrics.

The young crowd wanted more. Sivamani obliged and played the drums for them. Unlike any other musical concert, people from all walks of life and ages were enthusiastic to grab this rare opportunity. Many were seen busy recording the music on their mobile phones. Balachandra, a young employee, was elated after witnessing the show.

“It was amazing. Sivamani's instant actions are mind-blowing. He gave equal scope for others also, that’s really appreciable. When my friend informed me about Sivamani’s performance, I was eager to see him. So, I left office early and reached the venue early,”
he said.