About Master of the flute
Master of the Flute is a studio album by Carnatic flautist Dr. N. Ramani, released in May 2001. The recording showcases Ramani’s interpretation of classical compositions on the bamboo flute, accompanied by traditional instrumental support. The album appeared under an unspecified label and was issued in CD format.
The release features six tracks, each drawn from the Carnatic repertoire. Ramani performs Varna Navaragamalika in Adi tala, a technical piece often used to demonstrate rhythmic and melodic dexterity. The album includes Venugaana in the raga Kedaragowla (set to Rupaka tala) and Vasudevayani in Kalyani (set to Adi tala), both compositions by Tyagaraja. A devotional piece, Brochevarevarura in raga Kamach and Adi tala, is attributed to Mysore Vasudevachar.
Ramani also renders Sri Krishna Bhajamanasa in raga Thodi and Adi tala, a composition by Muthuswami Dikshitar. The album concludes with Muralidhara in raga Mand and Adi tala, composed by Periyaswami Thooran. The selection emphasizes both technical virtuosity and expressive phrasing, characteristic of Ramani’s performance style.
The release date aligns with a 2001 event, though specific details about the recording sessions or accompanying artists remain undocumented in available sources. The album serves as a representative sample of Ramani’s work during his later career, capturing his mastery of the Carnatic flute tradition.