T. Shankaranaryanan Nandakumar (T S Nandakumar), born on March 17, 1958, is a multitalented Indian Carnatic music percussionist celebrated for his mastery of the mridangam (barrel drum). Moreover, he’s also an expert on the use of konnakol (vocal percussion), thavil, ghatam, kanjira, and morsing.
Hailing from Ambalappuzha, Kerala, he’s part of the famed Ambalapuzha Brothers’ lineage. Nandakumar’s musical journey began at a tender age, and he perfected his mridangam skills under the tutelage of Shri Kaithavana Madhavdas, excelling as a Laya Vidwan (master percussionist).
A prodigy since childhood, Nandakumar’s rhythmic expertise led him to accompany luminaries like Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer, M. D. Ramanathan, and others in the world of Carnatic music. Beyond his accompanist role, he became renowned for his teaching abilities, establishing TSN’s Percussive Arts Centre. This unique ensemble trained in diverse instruments like mridangam, konnakol, thavil, and more, producing a celebrated album Jewels of Rhythm. His passion for perpetuating ancient Indian art extends globally, from India’s festivals to international workshops.
Nandakumar’s influence spans continents, with accolades including a Lifetime Achievement Award and recognition from the Cleveland Tyagaraja group. His legacy includes forming students into graded artists for All India Radio, and he’s bridged the traditional teaching model with contemporary approaches. Noteworthy is his dedication to older students abroad, fostering an appreciation for Carnatic percussion and Indian culture.
Pittsburgh University and other respected institutions have tapped into Nandakumar’s expertise, hosting special classes in percussive arts. His commitment also shines in his charity work, conducting a 24-hour non-stop Akanda Seva Bhajan to aid India’s tsunami victims. With an illustrious career in music and teaching, T. S. Nandakumar has struck a resounding chord in the world of rhythm.
Discography
Jewels Of Rhythm, Vol 1
Jewels Of Rhythm, Vol 2
Jewels Of Rhythm, Vol 3
Vibrative Rhythms
Vibrative Rhythms 2
Sruti Sandhya, with T N Krishnan
Sruti Sandhya 2, with T N Krishnan
Vibrations, with A. Kanyakumari
South Indian Percussion
Mridangam Solo
Demonstration on Talas and Rhythms
Konnakol
Cascades Of Rhythm
Classical Treat by Nedunuri Krishnamurthy, with Nedunuri Krishnamurthy
Jugalbandi Duet Series, with Pandit Bhimsen Joshi and Dr. Balamuralikrishna
A Duet On Strings, with T N Krishnan and Dr. N Rajam
Classical Instrumental Moods, with Narayan Mani
Matunga Sisters
Swati Tirunal Kritis, with Radha Warrier
Divine Expressions, with Narayan Mani
Surabhi, with Mangalam Muthuswamy
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.