R. Suryaprakash is a Carnatic vocalist, composer, and lyricist. An 'A Grade' artist of All India Radio, he has travelled extensively and received accolades for his performances.
Early life and education
Suryaprakash began studying music at the age of seven from his uncle Tirukkodikaval Shri V. Rajamani, a disciple of Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer. Later, he learned under Shri M. A. Venugopalan, another disciple of Semmangudi. He received his advanced training from Sangeetha Kalanidhi T. V. Sankaranarayanan. He further enriched his repertoire by working with Smt. Sulochana Pattabiraman and Dr. V. V. Srivatsa, both eminent musicologists.
Suryaprakash holds a master's degree in Carnatic music from Madras University. He was also awarded the doctorate degree in March 2020 by Madras University for his thesis titled "Structured and Systematic Approach to Manodharma Sangeetham".
Career
Suryaprakash is a regular performer in the Carnatic music circuit. He has been accompanied by leading stalwarts such as Umayalpuram K. Sivaraman, Mannargudi Easwaran, Thiruvarur Bhakthavatsalam, V. V. Ravi, Subhash Chandran.
Suryaprakash has performed extensively both in India and abroad in many countries such as Australia, Singapore, US, New Zealand, South Africa. He is a sought-after performer at international Carnatic music festivals, some of which being the Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival and the 'Festival of Asia' in Melbourne, Australia.
Suryaprakash is both a concert performer and a teacher, much sought after. He has conducted several workshops for aspiring students.
Suryaprakash has composed thillanas ragamalikas krithis. He has composed lyrics and set musical score for three Australian dance productions.
Awards
Kalaimamani Award, Tamil Nadu Iyal Isai Nataka Mandram, Chennai, 2018
G. Ramanathan Award, Sri Parthasarathy Swami Sabha, Chennai, 2013
Gana Kala Vipanchee, Padma Vibushan M. Balamuralikrishna, 2007
Nada Chintamani, Chintamani Gayana Samaja, Chennai, 2007
Best Vocalist, Madras Music Academy, Chennai, 2006
Ganamrutha Sagara, Gana Mukundhapriya, Chennai, 2006
Gambhira Gana Siromani, ABC, Sydney, 2005
Best Vocalist, Madras Music Academy, Chennai, 2004
Youth Excellence Award, Rotary Club of Madras, Chennai, 2004
Ariyakudi Memorial Award, Sriragam Fine Arts, Chennai, 2004
Nadachudhar, Nadabrahmam Music Journal, 2003
Madhura Gana Tilaka, Indian Arts Academy, Melbourne, 2003
Youth Excellence Award, Maharajapuram Viswanatha Iyer Trust, 2002
Best Vivadhi Raga Exposition, Madras Music Academy, Chennai, 2001
Yuva Kala Bharathi, Bharat Kalachar, Chennai, 1999
Maharajapuram Sri Viswanatha Iyer Prize for Best Raga Alapana, Sri Krishna Gana Sabha, Chennai, 1996 Best Vocalist, Indian Fine Arts Society, Chennai, 1995 Best Vocalist, Sri Krishna Gana Sabha, Chennai, 1991