Śrī T (Tirumakudalu) Chowdiah (1895-1967)

4.2.2 Pioneering violinist (seven-string violin)

T. Chowdiah (commonly Pitil (Fiddle) Chowdiah or Mysore T. Chowdiah) was one of the most influential Carnatic violinists of the 20th century. Trained in the Mysore environment (and a disciple of Bidaram Krishnappa among others), Chowdiah made two enduring contributions: his virtuoso solo and accompaniment style, and his invention/modification of the seven-string violin—an adaptation intended to increase projection in large halls before electronic amplification. He served as Asthana Vidwan to the Mysore royal court and later became a leading accompanist for top vocalists while also developing a bold solo repertoire. Chowdiah’s technique—immense stamina, novel tonal effects, and a willingness to experiment—was both admired and debated; his legacy is commemorated by the Chowdiah Memorial Hall (Bengaluru), shaped in the form of a violin, and by awards and institutional projects preserving his compositions and recordings. Chowdiah’s stylistic imprint was significant: he embodied Mysore’s blend of virtuosity and devotion, influencing pupils across Karnataka and beyond.