Visitor Speaks About Indian Classical Music

Priyamvadaa Sastri Jayanth presented to Middle School students at University School of Milwaukee on Monday, March 31. Jayanth, who is from India, spoke to students about the origins of Carnatic music, the many languages that Carnatic music is performed in, and performance practices as well. Carnatic music originated in Karnataka, India and is one of three main subgenres of Indian classical music. It is improvised during a performance, and it takes a diligent musician seven to eight years of lessons to become proficient enough in the craft to perform for an audience. 

“While we are not actively studying Carnatic music in class, we always take the opportunity to learn about music from different cultures when we can,” said Andi Franklin, Middle School and Upper School choir teacher, who invited Jayanth.

The visit supports USM’s guiding principle of inclusion, where a recognition of and respect for diverse backgrounds and cultures help students learn to think broadly, critically, and independently.