The Lalgudi Bani

The ‘Lalgudi Bani’ (bani is vernacular for style) is a creation of Sri Lalgudi Jayaraman’s genius. It is a bani where music takes the forefront, and technique is viewed only as a means of projecting and expressing the melody. The bani aspires to make the violin sing, and this is the focal point around which it has evolved. The bani is a blend of melody and rhythm – each complementing the other; and where rhythm, while by itself intricate and fascinating, is necessarily an undercurrent, and subservient to melody.

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In the interpretations and delineation of ragas, the bani prides itself on its ability to outline their defining and characteristic melodic forms within the first few phrases. In the rendition of a kriti, the Lalgudi bani encapsulates the spirit of the composer and composition, and brings to life the meaning and mood of the lyrics.

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This approach naturally necessitates the choice of appropriate and optimum tempo, gamakas (oscillations), and related musical nuances. Contained in this effort are also lofty values such as bhakti towards music, the composer, the guru, and the Almighty.

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A study of this bani, his numerous exquisite compositions, solo and accompaniment performances will reveal Sri Lalgudi Jayaraman’s genius, artistic sensitivity and technical brilliance, his research orientation, respect for tradition, urge to innovate, quest for perfection and keen sense of aesthetics.

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The result is scintillating, captivating and mesmerizing music.