Indian classical music

Five Celestial Musicians LACMA AC1992.254.1-.5

Raja Ravi Varma, Goddess Saraswati

Tansen of Gwalior. (11.8x6.7cm) Mughal. 1585-90. National Museum, New Delhi.

Indian classical music is the classical music of the Indian subcontinent. It has two major traditions: the North Indian classical music tradition, known as Hindustani music, and the South Indian classical music tradition, known as Carnatic music. Both traditions are highly disciplined and are built on a foundation of complex rhythms and melodies. Indian classical music has a rich history that spans thousands of years and has played a significant role in Indian culture and spirituality.

History

The origins of Indian classical music can be traced back to the Vedas, ancient sacred texts of India, where music was used as a medium to attain spiritual growth and enlightenment. Over the centuries, Indian classical music evolved into two distinct styles: Hindustani music, which developed in the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent, and Carnatic music, which is prevalent in the southern states of India.

Hindustani Music

Hindustani music is characterized by its focus on improvisation and exploration of all aspects of a raga (melodic framework) within the framework of a specific structure. It incorporates a variety of musical instruments, including the sitar, sarod, tabla, and harmonium. The performance is typically based on a raga, which provides a framework for the melodic improvisation, and a tala, which provides the rhythmic structure.

Carnatic Music

Carnatic music, on the other hand, is more compositionally structured than Hindustani music and places a greater emphasis on vocal music. The main components of Carnatic music are the raga and the tala, but it also gives importance to the compositions, which are usually devotional in nature. Key instruments in Carnatic music include the veena, mridangam, kanjira, and violin.

Ragas and Talas

Both traditions of Indian classical music are built around ragas and talas. A raga is a scale of notes with specific melodic movements that evoke particular emotions and feelings. A tala is a rhythmic cycle that has a fixed number of beats. The combination of a raga and a tala provides the basic structure for a musical performance, allowing for a high degree of improvisation.

Performance

A typical performance of Indian classical music may last several hours and is considered a deeply spiritual experience. Performances are often held in intimate settings, which allows for a close connection between the musicians and the audience. The music is traditionally taught through a rigorous system of apprenticeship (Guru-Shishya Parampara), where students live and study with their guru (teacher) for many years.

Influence

Indian classical music has influenced many other musical genres around the world, including jazz, fusion, and world music. It continues to evolve and adapt, incorporating new ideas and innovations while staying true to its traditional roots.

Conclusion

Indian classical music is a profound and intricate art form that offers both performers and listeners an opportunity for emotional, spiritual, and intellectual enrichment. Its rich history, complex theoretical framework, and the deep devotion of its practitioners have ensured its place as one of the world's great musical traditions.