About Girija...

Girija Mayuree Baskaran is a passionate and dedicated young musician whose journey through the classical arts has been shaped by deep devotion, discipline, and an abiding love for music.

A student of Carnatic vocal and veena for over 15 years, Girija has trained under the esteemed guidance of Sangeetha Vidwan, Isai Kalaimani Smt. Parasakthy Vinayagathevarajah in vocal music, and Isai Kalaimani Sangeetha Kalavithagar Smt. Kuganeswary Sathiyamoorthy in veena. Her musical development has been nurtured by their wisdom, patience, and unwavering support, shaping her into an expressive and thoughtful performer.

Girija's commitment to her art has led her to many notable achievements. She has proudly represented her tradition at the prestigious Cleveland Thyagaraja Festival, where she competed and performed among accomplished peers. She has led bhajans with heartfelt devotion and served as a chorister in her school’s choir for six consecutive years, showcasing her versatility across classical and contemporary forms.

Through her veena journey, Girija has embraced every opportunity to share the instrument’s divine resonance, performing at cultural events and community stages across Toronto. Her six-year tutelage under Smt. Kuganeswary Sathiyamoorthy has been marked by steady growth, a deepening connection to the instrument, and a sincere desire to preserve and celebrate this sacred art form.

Her teachers speak of her with admiration. Smt. Parasakthy notes that "her dedication, sincerity, and deep love for music have always shone through," while Smt. Kuganeswary describes her as "a committed and expressive performer, whose growth has been a true privilege to witness."

Her school music teacher, Mr. Greg D. Gallagher of The Bishop Strachan School, captures the spirit of Girija’s artistry with these words:

“Girija once said that music means ‘connections and family.’ She sees music as a bridge across generations—a bond formed through shared experience and love. Her passion and talent are not only inspiring, but a reminder of music’s power to foster community, meaning, and belonging.”

Girija’s Arangetram in both vocal and veena is a celebration of these values—connection, commitment, and creativity. It marks not just a milestone in her journey, but a promise of the musical path ahead. Rooted in tradition, yet ever evolving, Girija continues to explore music as both a spiritual discipline and a joyful expression of her soul.