Gorur Keerthy Raghavan
Mridangam Artiste (Karnatik Percussion), Composer, Educator, Collaborator, Seeker
Founder & Artistic Director: Laya Priya School of Performing Arts Shruti Laya Bhedam - Ensemble
Keerthy Raghavan is a percussionist and composer of percussion ensembles hailing from the quaint town of Gorur in India’s southern expanse. Born into a family steeped in the rich heritage of music and literature, his artistic journey was inevitably shaped by this profound cultural heritage.
FAMILY
Keerthy Raghavan is a percussionist and composer of percussion ensembles hailing from the quaint town of Gorur in India’s southern expanse. Born into a family steeped in the rich heritage of music and literature, his artistic journey was inevitably shaped by this profound cultural heritage.
MUSIC
KarnatiK music is a classical music tradition originating from South India. Known for its intricate melodies, complex rhythms, and emphasis on improvisation, it is one of the world’s most sophisticated musical systems. Steeped in ancient Indian philosophy and aesthetics, Karnatik music offers a profound and spiritually enriching experience for both musicians and listeners.
MUSICAL JOURNEY
Keerthy Raghavan’s musical quest commenced under the tutelage of Shri Rajakesari, a distinguished All India Radio artist and disciple of the legendary Guru Karaikudi R. Mani. Nestled within the prestigious Shruti Laya Kendra Bangalore Chapter, Raghavan’s foundational training was steeped in the rich tradition of the Mridangam. Renowned for his intricate rhythmic patterns and powerful yet nuanced strokes, Guru Karaikudi Mani’s unique style, known as “Mani Bani,” is a cornerstone of Karnatik percussion. Raghavan was fortunate to receive direct guidance from the maestro himself, mastering the intricacies of this fine art form.
EXPERIENCE
As a seasoned percussionist, Keerthy has showcased his talent in concerts across India, the Middle East, and Africa, actively engaging in various musical scenes and receiving recognition for community initiatives. Notable performances include the International Yoga Day at the United Nations in Nairobi. In Vancouver, BC, he is deeply engaged in cultural events such as the Mushtari Begum Festival, Indian Classical Music Society of Vancouver, South Asian Music Festival, Times will Tell Society Arts, Oakridge Adventist Church, Jazz initiatives by Canadian Music Center, Spice Radio, Hindu Heritage, and many more.
A PASSION BEHIND FOUNDING ENSEMBLE AND SCHOOL
SHRUTI LAYA BHEDAM
An ardent advocate for peace and unity, Keerthy excels in curating thematic musical experiences that advocate for global harmony and stand against racism. As the visionary behind “Shruti Laya Bhedam,” he endeavors to educate and raise awareness about rhythm while fostering cross-cultural collaborations that transcend boundaries. Through his ensemble, he seeks to deliver high-level percussion & melodic experiences to audiences while relentlessly striving for musical excellence.
LAYA PRIYA SCHOOL OF PERFORMING ARTS
Through the invaluable guidance of his mentors and gurus, Raghavan established a school dedicated to Karnatik percussion and music in Vancouver. Beyond his own performances, he is passionately committed to cultivating the next generation of musicians through his teaching and workshops in rhythm theory, Mridangam as percussion, and engaging lecture demonstrations for aspiring dancers. His innovative approach, seamlessly blending traditional Indian percussion with contemporary influences, has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
Connect with Rhythm Raghavan
Tutors
Putty R Mohan - A Karnatik Vocalist
is a profound Karnatik vocalist with a deep-rooted foundation in traditional classical music. Trained under the guidance of esteemed mentors like Vidwan R.N. Thyagarajan and Vidushi Smt. Jahnavi Jayaprakash, Putty has honed his skills over the decades. Putty R Mohan’s distinguished career includes captivating performances on All India Radio and Doordarshan, as well as collaborations with renowned Bharatanatyam dancers such as Vani Ganapathi, Kiran Subramaniam, Narmada, and Revathi Narasimhan. He has graced prestigious stages across India, including Sri Chowdaiah Memorial Hall in Bangalore and Sri Krishna Gana Sabha in Chennai. His impressive resume also includes a performance at Rashtrapathi Bhavan, New Delhi, in the presence of former President Dr. Abdul Kalam. Moreover, Putty has showcased his talent internationally, performing in the United Kingdom and the Middle East. He even served as the lead vocalist for a dance production by the company ‘India Dance Wales’ in the United Kingdom Beyond his illustrious performing career, Putty R Mohan is a dedicated educator, sharing his passion for Karnatik music with students of all ages across the globe. As a founding member of the Rajarajeshwarinagar Cultural Association, he has been instrumental in promoting classical music through various initiatives. In addition to his in-person classes in Bangalore, Putty R Mohan is dedicated to nurturing young talent through his online Karnatik music classes offered by the Laya Priya School of Performing Arts. He has also played a pivotal role in developing the school’s curriculum, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future musical examinations
Athman Putty Mohan: A Rising Flute Prodigy
A young musical prodigy, a raising star has been captivating audiences with his exceptional flute skills in India. His musical journey began at the tender age of three, when his parents recognized his innate talent. To foster his musical growth, Athman was homeschooled until his 10th grade, allowing him to focus on his passion for music and his father a profound Karnatik classical performer and a teacher started flute lessons for him at the age of 5. Furthermore, Athman has undergone rigorous training under renowned mentors like Vid. Sampagodu Vighnaraja and the Flute Brothers Vid. Heramb and Vid. Hemanth, honing his flute-playing skills. His debut performance at the Rajarajeshwarinagar Cultural Association at the age of 10 marked the beginning of a promising career.
Athman’s dedication and talent have been recognized with prestigious awards, including scholarships from CCRT, Central Govt. of India and the Academy of Music, Bangalore. He is also the winner of flute competitions securing the top prizes. His musical repertoire extends beyond solo performances. Athman has graced prestigious stages across India, including Gayana Samaja, Chowdiah Memorial Hall, Rajarajeshwarinagar Cultural Association, and the Indian Music Experience. He has also participated in renowned events like the Sri Palani Subramaniam Pillai Global percussion challenge and chamber concerts. Athman is a dedicated tutor at the Laya Priya School of Performing Arts. He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and inspiring students to explore the intricacies of Karnatik music. With his ability to connect with present generation, Athman creates a supportive and encouraging learning environment. He provides personalized instruction, focusing on both technical skills and emotional expression. Athman’s dedication and expertise are making a significant impact on the next generation of Karnatik musicians
