How Chandler Prep Student Spent Winter Break on the Stages of India
Chandler Prep January 16, 2024 -
As our students have returned to school from winter break, it has been exciting to hear about all the great experiences, trips, and shared time with family and friends. But for Manasa Subramanian, a junior at Chandler Preparatory Academy, winter break was an international tour of performing a series of concerts in India.
The young emerging talent has taken the world of Carnatic music by storm. Carnatic music is a system of music commonly associated with South India. The main emphasis is on vocals and mostly written to be sung. Subramanian delighted audiences with a total of 12 concerts, leaving a lasting impression everywhere she went. Her passion for music, coupled with her humility and gratitude, has touched the hearts of many and cemented her position as a rising star.
From performing in grand concert halls to connecting with people on a personal level, Subramanian’s tour during the Margazhi Festival, where over a thousand performing arts concerts take place in various halls over a period of nine weeks, was a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. The highlight of her journey was her performance at a renowned hall in New Delhi, India, where she left the audience spellbound with her rendition of Carnatic music. But it wasn’t just the big stages that brought her joy. Her performance at a senior citizen home showcased her compassion and talent, earning her heartfelt appreciation from the listeners.
Whether it was performing for large audiences or small intimate gatherings, she effortlessly brought the pure essence of South Indian classical vocal music to life. Her melodious voice earned her praise from admirers and seasoned musicians alike.
An unexpected honor came her way when she was nominated and featured on the cover of a local magazine. This acknowledgment humbly recognized her contribution to the art form and her growing prominence as a young artist.
Her tour was a true test of her dedication and perseverance. From performing the very next day after landing in India, fighting jet lag, to having her last concert on the day of her travel, Subramanian managed to perform 12 concerts in just 16 days. Some concerts were an hour long, others an hour and a half, and a few even stretched to two hours. Through it all, she remained grateful for the opportunity to share the beauty of Carnatic music with receptive audiences.
Subramanian’s success would not have been possible without the support of her mother and manager, Usha Ramachandran, who is also a teacher at Chandler Prep. With her mother’s guidance and support, she was able to balance her academic commitments and her passion for music.
As the curtain fell on her series of concerts, Subramanian expressed her deep gratitude for the incredible experiences she had during winter break. She remarked, “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to commence the new year by sharing the beauty of Carnatic music with such receptive audiences. It has been an enriching journey, and I humbly look forward to what lies ahead.”
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