Trinity of Carnatic music
The Trinity of Carnatic Music, also known as the Three Jewels of Carnatic Music, refers to the outstanding trio of composer-musicians of Carnatic music in the 18th century—Tyagaraja, Muthuswami Dikshitar, and Syama Sastri. Prolific in composition, the Trinity of Carnatic music is known for creating a new era in the history of carnatic music by bringing about a noticeable change in what was the existing carnatic music tradition. Compositions of the Trinity of Carnatic music are recognized as being distinct in style, and original in handling ragas. All three composers were born in Thiruvarur, formerly part of Thanjavur District in Tamilnadu. M. S. Subbalakshmi, D. K. Pattammal, and M. L. Vasanthakumari, who are carnatic musicians of the 20th century, are popularly referred to as the female Trinity of Carnatic Music.
| Name | Years | Language of Compositions | Mudra | Known for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Syama Sastri | 1762–1827 | Telugu and Sanskrit | Śyāma Krishna | Complex Talas, Swarajati |
| Tyagaraja | 1767–1847 | Telugu and Sanskrit | Tyagaraja | Pancharatna Kritis |
| Muthuswami Dikshitar | 1775–1835 | Sanskrit; Some in Manipravalam | Guruguha | Nottuswara, Navagraha Kritis |