Ilaiyaraaja Yahoo group meet – An insider’s report

The 22nd meeting of Ilaiyaraaja Yahoo group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ilaiyaraaja) meet took off on February 15, 2009 at Ma Foi Academy Chennai between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. A large group of 58 people attended the meet.

The meet was named ‘Euphoria’ by Dr Nandha, an ENT Surgeon. This name was revealed to the members only on the day of the meet and it dawned as a surprise to the attendees. The reason for

choosing the caption was due to the fact that the Maestro’s not-so-popular musical notes were played by the orchestra team specially organised for the occasion by Dr Nandha. Not only were the songs played but also the technical and artistic attributes were explained in detailed by Dr Nandha. The orchestra team needs a special mention as it is a treat to watch them play to the musical conduction of Dr Nandha. The orchestra composed of Mr Giridharan, Dr Sridhar, Mr Balaji, Mr Balasubramaniam, Mrs Anupama, Ms Karthika Harini, Dr Sudha, Dr Srinivasan, Mrs Nancy, Mr Nehru and the children who sang the chorus.

Apart from various musical tunes of Ilaiyaraaja like Enadhu Udalum, Mayile mayile, Edhedho, Keeravani and many more, the highlight of the event was the treat by the Giridharan and Sridhar also fondly called the ‘Thiruvasakam Brothers’ performed ‘Maastra Sodhi’ from Pollaavinaiyen in Thiruvasakam. All singers took part in the chorus.

Mr Sadhanandham graced the occasion. It is worth noting that he started his career with the Maestro as a chief guitarist. He also played the guitar for ‘Edhedho ennam valarthen’ sung by Karthika Harini.

The 23rd meet is scheduled to be held in Coimbatore on May 16 & 17, 2009. After the announcement of the next meet the meeting came to a satisfying close.