Melbourne-based twin brothers Ramnath Iyer and Gopinath Iyer are leading exponents of the veena (ancient fretted-string instrument) and are recognised in Australia and overseas as a unique duo in Carnatic (South Indian) classical music.  They have taken the traditional form of Carnatic music, which is usually a solo, improvisational style, and added depth through their dual improvisations.  The interplay between the brothers who know each other’s music intimately is incomparable, leading one Indian critic to remark “they have such perfect synchronisation that it is difficult to make out that two instruments are being played simultaneously..” (The Hindu, 1999)  The brothers learnt the art of veena under the guidance of internationally acclaimed performer and teacher R.Pichumani in India.  Both Ramnath and Gopinath had successful solo careers prior to 1994 when they decided to perform together.  Since that time they have performed at festivals around Australia, and regularly return to India.  In  between performances, the Iyer Brothers teach the art of veena playing at their school, the Pichumani School of Carnatic Music in Melbourne.