BRIDGING CULTURES, INSPIRNG HARMONYMeet Our Instructor
At Veds, since 2010, passionately taught Indian and Western classical vocal, piano, and music theory. With expertise in ABRSM and Trinity Guild Hall grade exams, we've nurtured students for solo and choral performances.
MEET THE GURUSuriya Naren
A versatile musician and passionate educator, seamlessly blends the rich traditions of Carnatic and Western classical music to offer personalized and transformative music lessons.
I’m Suriya, hailing from Tirunelveli, a quaint town nestled in the vibrant state of Tamil Nadu, India. Despite earning an engineering degree, my heart has always resonated with the soulful melodies of music from a young age. My musical journey commenced with the mesmerizing tunes of Carnatic (Indian classical) music, igniting a profound passion within me.
Driven by an insatiable thirst for musical knowledge, I sought guidance from seasoned music mentors who introduced me to a plethora of musical genres, including Western classical voice and piano. Even amidst my academic pursuits, my unwavering dedication to music enabled me to undertake part-time musical certification courses, shaping me into a versatile musician.
I received formal training in Carnatic music at the esteemed University of Madras in 2013, and my journey further flourished with a Western Classical music certification from the prestigious KM Music Conservatory, owned by the renowned Academy Award-winning composer AR Rahman, in 2010. Additionally, I hold certificates from the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) and Trinity Guild Hall, specializing in Voice, Piano, and Music Theory and a presidential scholar holding an associate of arts in western classical music from Rock Creek School of Music, Portland. Currently, I am honing my skills under the tutelage of Smt. Anjana Thirumalai for Carnatic music and Celeste Siciliano for Western classical voice and piano.
My passion for teaching music burgeoned during my collegiate years when I started imparting Carnatic music lessons to children outside of my academic commitments. What initially began as a hobby soon evolved into a profound calling, fueling my enthusiasm for music education.
In 2010, I established Swaralaya (now rebranded as Veds), my home studio, where I have been teaching Indian classical and Western classical vocal, piano, and music theory. Over the years, I’ve mentored numerous students for grade exams conducted by ABRSM and Trinity Guild Hall, fostering their musical growth and providing them with performance opportunities in solo and choral settings.
Through Swaralaya, I’ve orchestrated various cultural events and authored a book titled “Basics of Carnatic Music,” delving into its fundamental aspects. Additionally, I curate content on my Carnatic Music tutoring YouTube channel, Swaralaya Music Beyond Boundaries.
With my diverse musical background, I aspire to enhance the learning experience by integrating the best techniques from different musical traditions. I am committed to fostering an inclusive and progressive pedagogy in music education, striving to make a positive impact on the musical landscape for present and future generations.
Ultimately, my mission is to redefine the boundaries of music and create innovative avenues for musical expression by seamlessly blending diverse cultural influences and styles. Join me on this musical odyssey as we embark on a journey of discovery and harmony.
