Charlie Palmieri El Gigante Del Teclado CD

Rajam first burst onto the music scene in the 1960's, it was employed mostly as an accompanying instrument, played in ensembles and orchestras or providing instrumental support for singers. She was responsible for introducing the vocal style, known as 'Gayaki ang' into the violin repertoire. Since then, this style of playing has become a great favourite with Indian classical music audiences.

Dr.N.Rajam hails from a family, which boasts generations of great violin players, her brother; T N Krishnan is a well-known South Indian violinist. Her technique was inherited from her father Sr. Narayana Iyer, who encouraged his daughter to absorb influences of vocal music and the ancient string instrument the 'Veena' into her playing.

Later, her yearning for self-development took her to the holy city of Benares, on the banks of the River Ganges, where she embarked on fifteen years of rigorous musical training under the guidance of legendary singer Omkarnath Thakur. As a devoted disciple, N.

Rajam served out an invaluable apprenticeship, regularly accompanying her teacher on stage, echoing all of his subtle vocal nuances. Her guru encouraged her to approach music with utmost tenderness, love and humility; virtues which have characterised Rajam's playing for the last thirty years. Those who were lucky enough to have experienced the performances of Omkarnath Thakur speak of music of a high emotional intensity.

She has been able to successfully adapt many varieties of vocal styles into her playing, namely khayal, thumri, tappa and bhajan, vocal styles with distinctive characteristics and traditions. It is the combination of these forms gives her music a sense of completeness. Her technique is the envy of violinists worldwide, and in India, as well as a popular performer, she is regarded as a musician's musician. In 1984, The Indian government recognised her service to music by honouring her with the 'Padmashree', one of the highest awards bestowed on any artist.