A Veerabhadraiah

Vidwan A. Veerabhadraiah was one of Karnataka’s most celebrated violinists of the last century. Born on 4th December 1923, Veerabhadraiah was the beloved son of the renowned harmonium vidwan Arunachalappa and Annapurnamma. He was a Science graduate. Growing up in a home steeped in music, he naturally developed a deep interest in music from a very young age. He received his initial training in music from his father and subsequently pursued advanced training under the guidance of L. S. Narayanaswamy Bhagavathar. Under his tutelage, Veerabhadraiah blossomed into one of the finest violinists of Karnataka. The celebrated Violin Trio concerts presented by Veerabhadraiah along with Prof. H. V. Krishnamurthy and Anoor N. Ramakrishna became immensely popular not only across Karnataka but throughout the country. He accompanied several eminent musicians of his time. In 1934, Veerabhadraiah took over Aruna Musicals, founded by his father Arunachalappa. Through his involvement in the manufacture of musical instruments, he pioneered several innovative experiments. His efforts in using fibreglass, alongside traditional wood, in the making of various musical instruments brought about a significant transformation in the field. Under his leadership, the development and manufacture of specialised strings suitable for a wide variety of musical instruments, as well as sruti pipes, became possible. His innovative contributions extended beyond Karnataka and proved valuable to musicians across the world. Vidwan A. Veerabhadraiah was associated with several prestigious institutions, including Vijaya Sangeetha Vidyalaya, Vani Sangeetha Vidyalaya, Karnataka Ganakala Parishat, and the Karnataka State Sangeetha-Nritya Academy. He served these institutions in various capacities, including as a member, secretary, and president, contributing significantly to their growth and development. For his distinguished contributions to music and the arts, Vidwan A. Veerabhadraiah was honoured with several prestigious awards and titles, including ‘Nada Gambheera,’ ‘Gana Kala Bhushana,’ and ‘Karnataka Kalashree.’ Vidwan A. Veerabhadraiah passed away on 6th September 1999, merging with the eternal Nada Brahma. His life remains an inspiring testament to a profound dedication to music - as a performer, accompanist, innovator, and institution-builder. His contributions continue to live on through the musicians, instruments and musical traditions he enriched.