Parthasarathy P

I have been passionately involved in the field of Indian classical music for over two decades, specializing in Mridangam and Carnatic vocal music. My musical journey began with a deep-rooted interest in rhythm and melody, which eventually led me to pursue formal training in these disciplines. I currently teach both Mridangam and Carnatic vocal music on UrbanPro, and over the years, I’ve trained students from a variety of age groups and musical backgrounds. My aim as a teacher is to nurture in my students the same love and discipline for classical music that has guided my own journey.

I hold a Master of Business Administration (MBA), but my heart has always belonged to music. I undertook full-time diploma courses in Mridangam and Carnatic vocal music from the esteemed Kalakshetra Foundation in Chennai—an institution globally recognized for its contribution to Indian classical arts. My education there helped me develop a strong theoretical foundation, as well as practical proficiency in both rhythm and voice. To further validate my training, I also cleared the Government Technical Examinations in both Mridangam and Carnatic Vocal music, which are prestigious certifications in the field.

Throughout the past 20 years, I have performed extensively in cultural programs and classical music festivals across India. One of the highlights of my career was participating in Kalakshetra’s annual festival, where I had the opportunity to perform on a reputed platform and learn from other accomplished artists. I’ve accompanied several senior musicians in concerts, and these experiences have deeply enriched my understanding of accompaniment, improvisation, and stage presence. Such collaborations have helped me grow as a performer and as a teacher.

My teaching journey has been equally fulfilling. I have had the pleasure of guiding numerous students, many of whom have gone on to perform confidently in competitions, temple festivals, and public concerts. I believe in a holistic approach to music education—emphasizing not only the techniques and theory but also the cultural essence and emotional expression of the art. My classes are interactive and personalized, catering to the strengths and learning styles of each student. It gives me immense joy to see my students evolve into independent musicians and develop their own musical identity.

Over the years, I have consistently received encouraging feedback from students and their families. They often appreciate my patience, depth of knowledge, and structured approach to teaching. I take time to explain not just the 'how' but also the 'why' of every lesson, whether it's a complex tala pattern in Mridangam or a raga in vocal music. I also incorporate historical and lyrical context into my sessions to ensure students truly understand what they are learning and not just memorizing it.

Being invited regularly to perform at sabhas and temple festivals in Chennai is something I hold in high regard. These performances not only keep me grounded as a practitioner but also allow me to stay connected with the evolving traditions of Carnatic music. They also inspire the younger generation of students I mentor, many of whom accompany me to such events to observe, absorb, and sometimes participate.

I offer both online and offline classes to accommodate learners from different regions and time zones. My sessions are structured but flexible, and I often use demonstrations and curated audio clips to enhance learning. Whether students are preparing for stage performances, examinations, or simply learning out of passion, I guide them accordingly with the right mix of rigor and encouragement.

For me, teaching music is not just about passing on technical knowledge—it is about instilling values, discipline, and a lifelong love for the art. Every class, every student, and every performance is a new opportunity to celebrate our rich musical heritage. It is this sense of purpose that drives my commitment to excellence in both teaching and performance.