| Uppalapu P. Raju belongs to the first generation of Mandolin artists. Born in a musical family, it is not surprising to see U. P. Raju's inclination for music. But rendering traditional Carnatic music through a Western instrument is a stroke of genius. Raju's style on the mandolin is one that allows free reign to the artist's imagination, even though much of his music is an interpretation of compositions laden with lyrics. Raju underwent seven years of rigorous training through Gurukulavasam system from Shri Rudraraju Subharaju - a vocalist and a disciple of Chembai Vaidhyanatha Bhagavathar. For more than a decade, Raju has been performing in various sabhas and other major cities in India. He has also travelled extensively performing in countries such as USA, Canada, Australia, Europe and Sri Lanka. |