THE TRINITY

The Trinity of Carnatic music


They refer to the outstanding trio of composer-musicians of Carnatic music in the 18th century,

being Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar and Syama Sastri.

Prolific in composition, the Trinity of Carnatic music are known for creating a new era in the history
of Carnatic music by bringing about a noticeable change in what was the existing
Carnatic music tradition. Compositions of the Trinity of Carnatic music are recognised as being
distinct in style, and original in handling ragas. The type of songs prevailing today, known as
 kriti (lit. “creation“), was popularized by them. Their songs built on the kirtana tradition –  easy to
 remember tunes suited for the congregational singing of South and North Indian lyrics.
Comprising two or three melodic themes (pallavi, anupallavi and charanam), their songs continue to
 kindle creativity, even displays of virtuosity, among today’s singers and instrumentalists.
 All three composers were born at Thiruvarur formerly part of Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu.
We are indeed blessed!

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