- Call us: 9447256014/8893846746
- Email: contact@vechoorfoundation.org
The Vechoor N Hariharasubramonia Iyer Foundation was established in September 2023 by his disciples. Our core mission is to promote South Indian Carnatic music in its authentic essence, as taught by Vechoor Sir, and to inspire the next generation to uphold his cherished musical values.
Meet Vechoor Sir!
Vechoor Hariharasubramonia Iyer was born on November 11, 1925, in Vechoor, a village in Kottayam district, Kerala, to Neelakanta Iyer and Janaki Ammal. He was the second of four sons. Recognizing his early interest in Carnatic music, his parents arranged for preliminary lessons with nagaswara vidwan Chertala Kuttappa Panicker. After completing his matriculation, he enrolled in the Swati Tirunal Music Academy in Trivandrum in 1943 and graduated with First Class in the Gana Bhushanam course in 1947. During his studies, he learned compositions from Swati Tirunal, the music Trinity, and other great composers under renowned faculty, including Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer, G.N. Balasubramaniam, and others. He further refined his skills through five years of gurukulavasam under Semmangudi Srinivasa Iyer. His exquisite artistry garnered him illustrious accolades, such as the Sangeeta Nataka Academy award and the esteemed Gayaka Ratna title, while Trivandrum AIR recognized him as an A-graded artist. In later years, he imparted his wisdom as a Professor at Trivandrum Swathi Tirunal Music College, nurturing countless students who blossomed into accomplished musicians. His enduring legacy as both a musician and an Acharya continues to ignite inspiration within the hearts of future generations, weaving through the fabric of musical heritage. Vechoor Sir, a mythical figure from an era where digital recordings were but a dream, still echoes in the hearts of his disciples and fellow artists. His students strive to celebrate his remarkable legacy as an extraordinary teacher, celebrated musician, and a truly exceptional human being.
THE VECHOOR STYLE: PURE CARNATIC TRADITION
Vechoor Sir was renowned for his authentic representation of the Semmangudi Bani (style). His music was unadulterated and pristine, deeply rooted in gamaka-oriented expression. His initial training under a nadaswaram vidwan (master) honed his gamakas, evident in the clarity of his raga alapanas. With an endearing voice, his renditions showcased impeccable sruti-shuddham (pitch purity), akara-shuddham (vocalization purity), and sahitya-shuddham (lyrical purity). He also intelligently incorporated the GNB style of raga singing, which is clearly discernible. Vechoor Sir's performances were marked by remarkable discipline making it a treat for discerning ears. We hope you will enjoy all the traditional aspects of bhava music in his singing.
CONTRIBUTE
Shri Vechoor Harihara Subramonia Iyer's profound impact on Carnatic music deserves a fitting tribute. Your contribution, in any form, helps us preserve and promote Carnatic music. Here's how you can make a difference. Financial Support: Sponsor our events or donate through the links provided Preserve Learnings: Help us record Vechoor Sir's patantharams (traditional renditions) with notations for the foundation's YouTube channel, creating a valuable resource for students. Host "Vechoor Day": Partner with the Foundation to organize "Vechoor Day" events in your local area. Attend Our Events: Join us in person at our events throughout the year. Your presence is invaluable! Centenary Celebrations: We especially invite you to be present at the Centenary Celebrations on November 11, 2025. Details will follow Share Recordings: Contribute audio or video recordings of Vechoor Sir, including home recordings, for his YouTube channel. Please share your collections to our Email Or whatsapp to +91-88938 46746 Bank Transfer: Name: VECHOOR HARIHARASUBRAMONIA IYER FOUNDATION Bank Name: Punjab National Bank, Statue Branch, Trivandrum Account Number - 3301002100020095 IFSC Code: PUNB330100 For sponsorships: Contact us at: 94472 56014/88938 46746 Email: vechoorfoundation@gmail.com
Vechoor Sir Centenary Celebrations 2025 - 2026
The centenary celebrations of Vechoor Sir offer a magnificent opportunity to honour a life rich with profound wisdom. This momentous milestone not only commemorates a century since the birth of a remarkable musician but also illuminates the enduring impact of his melodies on innumerable music lovers Envisioned events may include enlightening lectures, immersive workshops, captivating concerts, and spirited music competitions that resonate with Vechoor Sir’s timeless musical principles. These celebrations should serve as a tribute to the past while igniting the passion of future generations to cherish and uphold Vechoor Sir’s illustrious legacy of musical values. Vechoor Sir Commemorative Events A. June 7, 2025: Inaugural Events 1.Inaugural Ceremony 2.Video presentation: Vechoor Sir's life and musical journey. 3.Launch: Official website 4.Launch: YouTube channel (song renditions). 5.Launch: Social media (Facebook & Instagram). 6.Musical Evening by Prince Rama Varma & Party B. Other Events 1.Music concerts: Collaboration with 10-12 Kerala music sabhas (cosponsored by Vechoor Foundation, benefiting students). Potential collaboration with Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy. 2.Inter-State Carnatic Music Competitions: Concert, RTP, kritis, varnams (various age groups). Vechoor awards 3.Music workshops & concerts: Led by prominent artists in music colleges/departments. 4.Book release - Biography, memories, and 30-50 kritis (Vechoor version) on Nov 11, 2025 5. Associate with AIR for their programmes C. Centenary Celebrations: Nov 11, 2025
Illustrious Disciples
Vechoor Sir, a dedicated teacher, trained thousands of students. Many became accomplished musicians, preserving and passing on pure classical music for generations
