Europe’s leading violinist from the Carnatic classical tradition, Jyotsna Srikanth’s initial foray into music came in the film industry, playing under the direction of film composers such as Hamsalekha and Ilaiyaraaja. Her recitals combine a deep understanding of traditional music with a jazz and a contemporary touch. This rare balance between tradition and modernity has helped her carve a unique niche, captivating audiences across the globe.
Born and brought up in Benguluru, India, Jyotsna went on to receive her MBBS and MD from Bangalore Medical College, India. She is married to K.V. Srikanth Sharma, has two children and currently lives in London.
Jyotsna has trained under her mother, Ratna Srikantiah and later under Guru R. R. Keshavamurthy, a doyen of classical Indian violin. She also learnt western classical and achieved her grading from the Royal School of Music, London. Amidst this, for advanced training, she approached V.S. Narasimhan, a solo violinist who works with the notable Indian composer Ilaiyaraaja.
She established a foundation, Dhruv Arts to promote Carnatic Music in United Kingdom, as well as raise funds for charity. Jyotsna continues her Carnatic music career as a soloist and as an accompanist, and has performed with masters such as Dr M. Balamuralikrishna . She enjoys a large fan following across the countries and is popular with her world tours.
Jyotsna composes music rooted in Indian-Jazz and interweaves this with flamenco, electronica, funk, Indian,Celtic folk and Bollywood – the musical bias shifting depending on the festival, mela, auditorium and audience.
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