top of page

Profile

                   Sumesh Narayanan's prominence in the realm of Carnatic percussion is nothing short of extraordinary, distinguishing him as one of the most exceptional and highly sought-after artists of the present generation. His journey in the world of Carnatic music is marked by dedication and an insatiable thirst for mastery. For over two decades, Sumesh has been under the tutelage of the eminent Mridangam Maestro, “Sangita Kalanidhi” Dr. Thiruvaarur Bakthavathsalam. This extended period of mentorship has not only solidified his technical prowess but also immersed him deeply in the time-honoured traditions of the mridangam within the Carnatic style.

                   However, what truly sets Sumesh Narayanan apart is the unique fusion of elements within his artistic persona. On one hand, he stands as a staunch advocate of preserving and mastering the profound traditions that have been passed down through generations within the Carnatic mridangam oeuvre. His commitment to this heritage is unwavering, reflecting in the precision and authenticity of his performances. 

On the other hand, Sumesh possesses a rare attribute—an open and expansive worldview. This outlook transcends the boundaries of tradition and allows him to seamlessly integrate into a broader musical landscape. He is not confined to the classical stage alone but ventures into uncharted territories, embracing innovation and interdisciplinary collaborations with enthusiasm.

                    This dual identity of Sumesh positions him as a pivotal force in diverse and groundbreaking musical projects. His contributions are not just welcomed but highly cherished by his collaborators, who admire his ability to infuse fresh ideas and boundless energy into their endeavours. Sumesh's dynamic playing style electrifies audiences, whether he is delivering a classical Carnatic performance or participating in experimental, fusion, or contemporary musical explorations.

                    In an era where musical genres often harmonise and collaborate, Sumesh hopes to facilitate the dialogue between tradition and innovation. His simultaneous dedication to preserving the past and embracing the future serves as a beacon of inspiration for both aspiring musicians and seasoned artists. Sumesh's artistry ensures that the mridangam, a timeless instrument in the world of Carnatic music, not only endures but also evolves to remain relevant in today's ever-changing musical landscape. His influence extends far beyond the boundaries of his instrument, enriching the world of music with his multifaceted talents and profound appreciation for both heritage and innovation.

​

Collaborations & Creations

​

  •  Co-creator of the experimental album “PERUMAL & PROVIDENCE Vol 1,2,3” composed, curated and arranged during the COVID-19 pandemic under the banner of Sound Creed LLP. This album involved over 30 classical artists in a variety of capacities, led ably by Sumesh as both “Creative Director” of Sound Creed, and performing artist.

  • One of the 8 spotlight artists from the production “ WEAVING VOICES '' by Award-winning Director Roysten Abel that premiered in 2022, starring Vid. Bombay Jayashri Ramnath, Pt. Udhay Bhawalkar and Deu Khan Manganiyar among others.

  • Curator and Creative Director of “EZHISAI : The Reign of Rasas”, an audio-video production comprising 9 concert-episodes thematized around each swaram produced by Sound Creed LLP.

  • Composer and performer for the live theatre production “HERE & NOW” along with acclaimed dancer Mythili Prakash and acclaimed singer Aditya Prakash which premiered in LA Dance Project in 2018. This production was later staged at the prestigious UK based Dance Umbrella’s “Four by four commissions”.

  • Composer for the theatre-dance production “Human | Nature” produced by SIFAS Productions Ltd that premiered in the Esplanade Theatre Studios, Singapore.

  • Featured performing artist as part of “NAVA” from the Blue Planet Series produced by The First Edition Arts, Mumbai.

  • Performed alongside Ustad Shujaat Khan and Vid. Sikkil Gurucharan in a classical presentation as part of India in the Artist’s Eye Festival held at the University of California, Davis (USA).

  • Staged a jugalbandhi alongside ace artist Rimpa Siva on the Tabla at the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre, Mumbai as part of their inaugural series of concerts.

  • Performed alongside Vid. Aruna Sairam as part of AIKYA 2019 held in Coimbatore.

  • Co-developed an app along with Kalyan Studio Apps called Mridangam Studio for iOS and Android that is aimed to aid and guide students of music through realtime accompaniment by way of loop creations, realtime tempo quantizations etc.

​

Fellowships

   ● The ‘Cultural Talent Search Scholarship’ instituted by the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training (CCRT), Govt. of India, New Delhi, from January 2002 to March 2012.

    ● Bharat Ratna MS Subbulakshmi Fellowship awardi nstituted bySri Shanmukhananda Sabha, Mumbai between 2015-2017. 

​

Awards & Prizes

  • Outstanding concert prize in the Senior category, The Music Academy Madras - 2023

  • Outstanding concert prize in the Senior category, The Music Academy Madras - 2019

  • “Maharajapuram Youth Excellence Award” from Maharajapuram Trust - 2019

  • Best Mridangam Artist prize in the Sub-senior category,The Music Academy Madras - 2018

  • Best Mridangam Artist prize in the Sub-senior category,The Music Academy Madras - 2016

  • Best Mridangam Artist prize in the Junior category,The Music Academy Madras - 2012

  • Best Concert prize in the Junior category, The Music Academy Madras-2012

  • Prof. Mahadevan Padmanabhan Endowment Award for the Best Young Mridangam Artist, Narada Gana Sabha - 2012

  • Best Mridangam Artist in the Spirit of Youth Festival of Music & Dance, The Music Academy Madras - 2009

  • First Prize in the Senior Category Music competitions, Instrument – Mridangam, The Music Academy Madras - 2008

bottom of page