Gopal Krishan

Who is Gopal Krishan?

Gopal Krishan was an exponent of vichitra veena, an ancient instrument.

He was taught initially by his father, Nand Kishore, who was himself a noted surbahar player and vocalist. After his father's death, he continued his training in music under the guidance of Khubchand Bramchari of the Gwalior school of music.

Krishan was a versatile musician. His musical expertise was not restricted to the vichitra veena. He was also a good vocalist and played several other instruments such as taltarang, tabla, guitar and a folk instrument called iktara.

He specialised in the Jhala technique, which is very difficult to play on this instrument and gives a climactic effect to the performance for the grand finale.