A.R. Balaskandan is a unique musician in that he completed his basic training in both Violin and Mridangam at a young age. As a mridangist, he belongs to the school of Sruthilaya of Sri Karaikudi R. Mani of Chennai, where he has received advanced training from Guru Karaikudi Mani. He has also completed his teaching degree in Carnatic violin, and has undergone advanced training from Smt. T. Rukmini of Chennai.

Balaskandan has accompanied established international artists and dancers and has performed in prestigious venues in both Europe and North America throughout his musical career. Performance credits include the Lincoln Center, NY, the Lighthouse International Theatre in NY and the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC.

He also has several large music and dance productions to his credit, including "Urban Kutcheri," which premiered at the Joyce/SoHo in June 2006, “Pallavi: Exchange of Ideas between Western and Indian Classical Traditions over the Century” presented in London, “Innovation and Inspiration: A Rhythmic Project to Encourage Creativity Among Young Musicians” in London, as well as the dance dramas “Mother Theresa” and “Kastur Bhai” in Canada.

He is a featured musician on several music recordings. He is also a recognized composer of rhythmic segments, known as Jathis, in Carnatic music. He was the founder and lead artist of “Avarthana,” a percussion based orchestra.

Balaskandan has worked in the development of organizations promoting South Indian music and dance in Canada and in the UK. He co-founded SIMDA, a promotional organization, in Toronto, Canada. He was a founding member and trustee of Sruthi Laya Seva (UK) Trust, an educational and promotional organization under the auspices of Guru Karaikudi R Mani.

He is currently based in New York, NY, where he teaches and performs regularly.