The Music and Musical Instruments of Southern India and the Deccan c12.2

c12.2

FROM early times Tanjore has been the chief seat of music in Southern India and most of the best known Karnâtik musicians have either lived there or have received their musical education from musicians of the Tanjore school. Little information can be gathered as to what extent the art flourished there formerly, but it is certain that several centuries ago a regular school of music was established and patronised by the Maharajahs. In the reigns of the Maharajahs Sarabhogi, Surfogi, and Sivaji music flourished greatly, and the musicians attached to the palace received large emoluments. The native courts of Travancore and Mysore have also patronised music to a great extent, and it is believed that the art was originally brought to them from Tanjore. Some of the most celebrated musicians of Southern India will be found among the following:—