Ganesh and Kumaresh are a well known duo of violin players who are a part of the South India music fraternity (Carnatic music). They are best known as modern contemporary artists who have done lot of service to "Sastriya Sangitam". The Carnatic Music name limits its reach and appears to confine itself to a limited area whereas the name Sastriya Sangitam gives it the legitimate dignity and honour, and enlarges its reach to the entire universe. They are a dynamic duo of violinists, who have carved a niche for themselves in this era of great violinists. The brothers have gone deeper into the realm of the music and brought out a refreshingly original content and style for the instrument.
Ustad Zakir Hussain: The duos were child prodigies who started performing before they entered the age of ten. Since then they have entered the ranks of the great living performers of IndianMusic. I have performed with Ganesh Kumaresh in the USA and Europe as well as in India. They are creative in their performances and their style includes a unique touch that expresses every emotion in the raga. They have remarkable stage presence and enthrall the audiences with their performances.
Dr. Balamuralikrishna, the living legend commends that Ganesh and Kumaresh are very accomplished musicians who have contributed to the enrichment of Indian style of violin playing. Their style of music bridges the gap between the young and old and opens up fresh ideas and avenues of creativity.
A.R. Rehman: "After traveling extensively to four countries when I come back to Chennai I am often asked why I choose to live here? The reason is simple because my house is here and Ganesh and Kumaresh are here." So said A.R Rehman as he launched the new age violin album "Carnatic chills" brought out by Ganesh Kumaresh.(Deccan chronicle Feb 12th 2007)
M.S. Gopalakrishnan: Music fraternity knows the great living legend Shri M.S.Gopalakrishnan did inimitable Tapas on the art of mastering to play the violin. He was the first person to perfect a style to perform both the branches of Indian Sastriya Sangitam. He declares the young brothers as the best duo of the present generation.
Isaignani Ilayaraja: This made the "Isaignani Ilayaraja" who was also present on the occasion (see the photograph below), to tell the brothers, what better encomiums they could look forward. He compared the occasion to that of Brahmarishi Vasishtar conferring the title of “Brahmarishi” on Maharishi Viswamitra.
Until recently all instrumentalists have been emulating faithfully what the vocal musicians performed in the popularly known gayaki style. Each instrument has its place of originality, individuality and limitations. Introduction of violin to Sastriya Sangitam has brought about a drastic change inasmuch as this instrument could surpass the melodic skeins, contents and possibilities. Ragapravaham, the brain child of these young brothers has over a short period of time become an instant hit all over the world. It is nothing but elaborating the traditional ragas, unfathoming their hypnotising melodic contents. Embracing and encompassing the other brotherly western instruments, like the Guitar,keyboard, drum in addition to the traditional Mridangam, Kanchira, Ghatam etc. Ragapravaham has caught the imigination of the youth in a big way.
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Trained by their father,Ganesh and Kumaresh completed their hundredth stage appearance before the younger brother was ten years of age. By the time they reached their teens they were rubbing shoulders with veterans in musical field.
In 1983, Sri M.G. Ramachandran, the former Chief minister of Tamil Nadu, has occasion to hear a television concert of the gifted brothers. He was so moved by their talent and accomplishment that he sent them a personal note of appreciation. He wrote, "I was wonderstruck with your talent. My hearty greetings to both of you. I am sure you will reach greater heights in your career." He subsequently made them State Artistes of Tamil Nadu.
Ganesh and Kumaresh have recorded for several prestigious music companies.
Apart from performing, they also score music for films and dance productions. Their music for the movie “Dance like a Man” and “Chandrikai” is widely appreciated.
Some of their musical productions are ‘Colours of India’, ‘Navarasa’, ‘Shadjam’, ‘Aksharam’, ‘Carnatic Chills’, ‘Expressions’, ‘Samarpan’ and ‘Brahmma’. Their own musical form Raga Pravaham brings out their grasp of the intricacies and aesthetics of the Indian Raga and Thala - the very essence of Indian music.
Ganesh and Kumaresh have been honoured as Asthana Vidwans of the Sri Matam of Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam. They were the youngest violinists to be recognized by All India Radio as "A-top" ranking artistes. Many more accolades and awards made their way in recognition of their mastery. Kalaimamani, Sunaadha Sironmani, Sangeetha Saragnya, Dwaram Venkata Swami Naidu award are only some of the many titles that have been bestowed on them.
Having performed in several top-notch global festivals, their creative idiom is international and their communication through music crosses all boundaries.
Their musical caliber has been recognized worldwide and they have performed extensively in India, USA, Canada, Germany, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Middle East, South East Asia, Maldives, Australia and many more countries.