It is difficult to encounter such a heady mixture of versatility, creativity and vision, all encapsulated in one man !
In all Dr. T.V.Gopalakrishnan is a cult figure, known simply as dear TVG to one and all!
Born at Trippunithura (Kerala, India), in a family of more than 200 years of musical heritage who adorned the courts
of Royalties, Trippunithura Viswanathan Gopalkrishnan (TVG) learnt the complexities of this inimitable music from his
father, Sri.Viswanatha Bhagavathar, who was himself a great exponent of Carnatic music. Even before the age of five,
TVG was initiated to the great tradition and heritage –“parampara” ,handed down by Coimbatore Raghava Iyer,
Mahavaidyanatha Iyer, Chakrathanam Subba Iyer (great grandfather of Chembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar) and
Palghat Anantharama Bhagavathar. His Uncle Sri.Narayanaswamy Iyer taught him Mridangam too . He was a little Maestro
even at the age of Six when he gave his maiden concert before the Last Viceroy of India, Lord Linlithgow.
Gifted with a mellow, bass voice capable of an envious panoramic range, TVG has trained it with infinite patience,
practice, and research oriented originality. He has successfully moulded his voice into an enchanting medium, which
weaves a magic spell of sonic beauty.
With complete discipline, concentration, natural aplomb, he maintains the purity of Carnatic and Hindustani renditions
and an uncompromising adherence to the traditions to both. Utilizing an analytical and research oriented approach,
coupled with his musical sensitivity and ingenuity, TVG has evolved a unique style in Hindustani music, emphasizing
the Sahitya Bhava, Raga Bhava and Rasa Bhava with precise elaboration of the Boltans and Sargam (swara prastharas)-which
is now better known as Madras Gharana.