Concerts of Chembai - Karur Concert (1913)

Karur Concert (1913)

A patron of the arts and artists named Pethachi Chettiar lived in Karur (near Trichy). He used to conduct a festival featuring music concerts by the leading musical lights of the day. The arrangements of this music test were the responsibility of the celebrated musician and vaggeyakara Harikesanallur Muthiah Bhagavatar. Chembai wanted to attend this music festival and he and his brother proceeded to Karur. He met Muthiah Bhagavatar and expressed his desire to perform in the festival. Muthiah Bhagavatar had told him that the performance schedules were prepared in advance and could not be altered. Chembai was keenly disappointed, but destiny took a hand. The violin accompanist for a jalatarangam concert failed to arrive. Chembai persuaded the artist to avail of his own services and she agreed. The concert turned out well and, as was customary, Chembai was handed over his payment for the part he had played. He, however, expressed a wish not to be paid in cash, saying that he had actually wanted only to sing. He explained he was building up a career as a vocalist, though he also knew how to play the violin; and that he would prize a different kind of payment, that of a chance to sing before such a distinguished audience. Muthiah Bhagavatar and Pethachi Chettiar were persuaded by this reasoning and promised Chembai the stage for the following day, where he performed to the appreciation of all.