Madras String Quartet
The Madras String Quartet (MSQ), founded in 1993 by violinist V. S. Narasimhan in Chennai, brings together the violin, viola, and cello to reinterpret Carnatic compositions within a Western classical string quartet format. Alongside Narasimhan, Hemanthraj Muliyil plays the violin, V.R. Sekar presents the cello and B. J. Chandran the viola. Originally trained in South Indian classical and film music, the ensemble merges intricate Carnatic ragas with harmonies and structures familiar to European chamber music. Their novel format stands out as a dynamic cross-cultural fusion born from India’s deep classical roots.
Under Narasimhan’s direction, MSQ has performed internationally—at venues such as the Royal College of Music in Stockholm and festivals across Europe and India . Their 2009 album Resonance—nine Carnatic compositions set against a backdrop of Western harmonies—received praise for its innovative approach, demonstrating how they preserve melodic integrity while exploring ensemble textures. The group collaborates with a small orchestra for enriched arrangements and continues to evolve the Carnatic-chamber music dialogue.
At the Darbar Festival 2011 (Kings Place, London), MSQ delivered a captivating 55-minute recital featuring six compositions such as Navaragamalika Varnam and Orajupu in Raga Kannadagowla, ingeniously blending Adi and Rupakam talas. The performance displayed striking interplay between Carnatic ragas and Western harmonies, with Narasimhan’s violin leading the ensemble in arrangements that thrilled Darbar’s audience—confirming their reputation for inventive and respectful fusion.
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