Kalaarpana Foundation for Fine Arts & Vijaya College of Music Announce Centenary Celebrations of Prof. H. V. Krishnamurthy
The Kalaarpana Foundation for Fine Arts and the Vijaya College of Music proudly launched the Centenary Celebrations of Prof. H. V. Krishnamurthy (1926–1999), the legendary Carnatic violinist, revered guru, and visionary academician. The celebrations were inaugurated in the august presence of Dr. R.V. Raghavendra, Managing Trustee - Ananya and Managing Partner of Geological and Metallurgical Laboratories, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.
Vidwan Sri H.K. Venkatram conceived the idea to recognise the living legends who have contributed to transform the western violin to become a mainstay in Carnatic Music.
Marking the commencement of the year-long festivities, the organizers announced an exciting line-up of monthly concerts, felicitation of violin maestros, and special thematic programs, all culminating in a grand centenary finale in October 2026. As part of the inaugural event, the prestigious ‘Prof. H. V. Krishnamurthy Birth Centenary Award’ carrying the title “Violin Vaadana Agrani” was conferred on five senior and distinguished violinists for their lifelong contributions to Carnatic music:
- Sri M. Chandrashekaran (Tamil Nadu)
- Sri V. V. Subrahmanyam (Tamil Nadu)
- Sri Annavarapu Ramaswamy (Andhra Pradesh)
- Sri Nedumangad Sivanandan (Kerala)
- Sri S. Seshagiri Rao (Karnataka)
Speaking at the inauguration, dignitaries highlighted Prof. Krishnamurthy’s unmatched contributions to Carnatic music and music education, describing him as a torchbearer who combined artistry with a vision for outreach.
The Centenary Celebrations are designed not only as homage to his musical journey but also as an inspiration for future generations of Carnatic musicians and enthusiasts. This year long celebrations will culminate on 25th October 2026.
The Life and Legacy of Prof. H. V. Krishnamurthy:
Born in 1926 in Chikkamagaluru, Prof. H. V. Krishnamurthy was initiated into Carnatic violin by his uncles, Sri L. S. Narayanaswamy Bhagavathar and Sri L. S. Seshagiri Rao. His first performance was in 1943, and he later gained renowned performing duets with Sri A. Veerabhadraiah and as a trio with Sri Anoor Ramakrishna.
Alongside his artistic career, he earned a Master’s degree in Zoology, served as Professor at Bangalore Medical College, and later as Principal of Government College, Kolar. A founding member of the Karnataka Ganakala Parishath, he also led the Vijaya College of Music for many years.
Prof. Krishnamurthy was a visionary educator who pioioneered outreach through lecture-demonstrations and innovative multimedia presentations, inspiring and training thousands of students. His international performances included tours in the USA, Singapore, and Malaysia. His honors include Sangeetha Kalarathna (Bangalore Gayana Samaja) and Karnataka Kala Tilaka, among others.
