About us
Mahaperiyava School of Mridangam
Driven by his passion for preserving and propagating the timeless tradition of Carnatic percussion, Sri Soori Upendra Narasimhan founded the Mahaperiyava School of Mridangam in Chennai.The school is dedicated to providing systematic and authentic mridangam training for students of all ages and backgrounds. With a structured curriculum, individual attention, and emphasis on both practical skills and rhythmic understanding, the institution nurtures students from beginners to advanced performers.
The school's vision is not merely to teach an instrument, but to cultivate discipline, devotion, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for Indian classical music.
Teaching Philosophy
Sri Soori Upendra Narasimhan believes that learning mridangam is a transformative journey that develops concentration, patience, creativity, and self-discipline. His teaching combines traditional guru-shishya parampara values with a systematic approach suitable for modern learners.
Students receive comprehensive training in:
- Fundamental playing techniques
- Carnatic rhythm (Laya) and Tala system
- Accompaniment techniques
- Solo performance (Thani Avarthanam)
- Stage performance and concert readiness
- Advanced rhythmic improvisation
Vision
Through his performances and teaching, Sri Soori Upendra Narasimhan strives to preserve the rich heritage of Carnatic percussion while inspiring future generations of musicians. His mission is to make the art of mridangam accessible to every sincere learner and to continue spreading the timeless beauty of Indian classical rhythm across the world.
Soori Upendra Narasimhan
Sri Soori Upendra Narasimhan is a distinguished Carnatic Mridangam artiste, performer, and teacher from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. With over two decades of dedicated practice, performance, and teaching, he has established himself as one of the respected mridangists in the Carnatic music fraternity.
His musical journey is rooted in unwavering discipline, relentless sadhana (dedicated practice), and deep reverence for the rich traditions of Indian classical music. His mastery over rhythm, tonal clarity, and sensitive accompaniment have earned him appreciation from eminent musicians and audiences across India.
Over the years, Sri Soori Upendra Narasimhan has performed in numerous prestigious concerts, accompanying renowned vocalists and instrumentalists on some of the country's most respected concert stages. His performances are known for their precision, aesthetic beauty, and perfect balance between technical brilliance and musical sensitivity.
Sri Soori Upendra Narasimhan's dedication to the art of mridangam was recognized at a young age. In 2003, at just 18 years of age, he was conferred the prestigious "Vadhya Kalaimani" title by the Department of Art and Culture, Government of Tamil Nadu, acknowledging his exceptional talent and contribution to Carnatic percussion.