Sangeetha Ratna Pemmaraju Surya Rao (born August 1934) is a distinguished Carnatic vocalist, educator, cultural journalist, and institution builder who has made significant contributions to the preservation and propagation of classical music in Andhra Pradesh. A versatile musician with expertise in concerts, compositions, broadcasting, and music education, he has served as a bridge between the traditional guru-shishya parampara and modern institutional music education. His multifaceted career spans performance, teaching, journalism, and cultural organization, making him a prominent figure in the Carnatic music landscape of Andhra Pradesh.
Early Life and Musical Foundation
Born in August 1934 into a family of classical music lovers, Surya Rao was exposed to the rich traditions of Carnatic music from an early age. This nurturing environment provided him with the foundation for what would become a lifelong dedication to classical music and its preservation.
Musical Training and Guru Parampara
Surya Rao achieved considerable command over both the theory and practice of classical Carnatic music under the guidance of his guru, Late Sri Maddulapalli Lakshmi Narasimha Sastri, who was a close disciple of the legendary Gayaka Sarvabhouma Sri Parupalli Ramakrishnaiah Pantulu. This direct connection to the Parupalli tradition ensured that he inherited the authentic style and approach of one of Carnatic music's greatest lineages.
Academic Career and Educational Leadership
Surya Rao dedicated 31 years of his life to music education, teaching at the Government Music College of Vijayawada and eventually retiring in the position of Principal. During his tenure, he worked under the stewardship of illustrious musicians including:
- Padmavibushan Dr. Mangalampalli Balamuralikrishna
- Sangeetha Kalanidhi Dr. Nedunuri Krishnamurthy
- Padmabhushan Dr. Nookala Chinna Satyanarayana
- Sri Dwaram Bhavannarayana Rao
This association with legendary musicians enriched his understanding and approach to music education.
Versatile Musical Contributions
As a versatile musician, Surya Rao has made significant contributions across multiple domains:
- Concert performances across various sabhas throughout the country
- Compositions of several vaggeyakaras
- Bhakthi Ranjani broadcasts for All India Radio
- Thematic Akashavani musical plays
- Musical talks and educational programs
International Recognition and Tours
Surya Rao has extensively toured internationally, giving concerts, lecture demonstrations, and conducting extensive teaching sessions in:
- United States of America
- USSR (former Soviet Union)
- Netherlands
- Canada
These international engagements have helped spread awareness and appreciation of Carnatic music globally.
Journalism and Cultural Documentation
Since 1975, Surya Rao has served as the cultural reporter for Vijayawada for the prestigious English daily "The Hindu." Through this role, he has documented and reported on the cultural activities of the region for nearly five decades, creating an invaluable record of the musical and cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh. He was also co-author of "Dr. Vempati Maestro with a Mission," a biography of Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam, the renowned Kuchipudi maestro.
Awards and Recognition
His contributions to Carnatic music have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards:
- Sangeetha Ratna - Conferred by the Federation of Music Sabhas of Andhra Pradesh
- Suvarna Ghanta Kankanam (2004) - Honored by his disciples and admirers
- Best Vocalist (1980) - Sri Krishna Gana Sabha, Chennai
- Best Musician Award (1983) - Madras Music Academy
- A Grade Artist - All India Radio
Guru-Shishya Parampara Recognition
A significant feather in his cap is his selection as vocal guru in the "Guru-Shishya Parampara" scheme implemented by the South Zone Cultural Department at Thanjavur. This recognition acknowledges his expertise in traditional teaching methods and his ability to pass on authentic musical knowledge to the next generation.
Institutional Leadership and Cultural Organization
Surya Rao is the founder president of the prestigious "Sangeetha Sanmandali" at Vijayawada, which he established in 1994 along with a few dedicated artists. The organization was founded with the aim of celebrating Thyagaraja Aradhana Sangeetotsavam every year in January. Under his leadership, the Sangeeta Sanmandali has grown into one of the most eagerly awaited annual musical events, attracting musicians from all over the country and even abroad.
Notable Students and Teaching Legacy
Among his distinguished students is Sunitha Upadrashta, the renowned playback singer who began training in Carnatic vocals under him at the age of six. This demonstrates his ability to nurture talent from a young age and his effectiveness as a teacher in developing accomplished musicians.
Cultural Impact and Community Building
Through the Sangeetha Sanmandali and his various cultural activities, Surya Rao has played a crucial role in building and sustaining the classical music community in Vijayawada and Andhra Pradesh. His efforts have created platforms for both established and emerging artists, contributing to the continuity and growth of Carnatic music in the region.
Media and Broadcasting Contributions
His work with All India Radio, particularly in Bhakthi Ranjani broadcasts and thematic musical plays, has helped bring classical music to wider audiences. His ability to create engaging musical content for radio has made classical music more accessible to the general public.
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Pemmaraju Surya Rao represents the ideal of a complete musician-educator who has contributed to Carnatic music through multiple channels. His work as a performer, teacher, journalist, and cultural organizer has created a comprehensive impact on the musical landscape of Andhra Pradesh. Through the Sangeetha Sanmandali, his students, his journalistic work, and his educational contributions, he has ensured that the traditions of Carnatic music continue to thrive and evolve. His life's work exemplifies how dedication to classical music can manifest in various forms of service to the art and the community, creating lasting institutions and inspiring future generations of musicians and music lovers.
