Veteran musician, musicologist and revered guru T.K. Govinda Rao passed away on 18 September 2011.
A highly regarded musician and practioner of Carnatic music Govinda Rao received his initial training under Chembai Vaidhyanatha Bhagavathar and much of his advanced music training under the legendary Musiri Subramania Iyer. In 1949, he joined the Central College of Music, Chennai and was guided by great musicians such as T. Brinda. He was a specialist in Purandara Dasa compositions.
Govinda Rao’s sound knowledge in theory and his ability to translate that to practice in his performances made him an exceptional musician. He made several valuable contributions to the field of music as a performing artist, teacher, musicologist and author. His books on the work of the Trinity, among others, are considered authentic guides for those learning and engaging with the compositions.
He placed great emphasis on the need for music to complement and enhance the lyrical content of a composition. His music was marked by classicism.
He was a visiting professor at the Annamalai University, Chidambaram, and also worked in All India Radio as chief producer. He contributed significantly in popularising Carnatic music during his stint in AIR.
The Music Academy in Chennai had conferred the title of Sangita Kalanidhi on Sri T. K. Govinda Rao in 2000. The award carried Rs. 10000, a citation and an insignia.
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