Understanding Hindustani Classical Music: The wondrous world of music has diverse and profound resonances across cultures. One of the richest and most complex musical traditions belongs to the Indian subcontinent, specifically the Hindustani classical music. Tracing its roots to Vedic traditions, it is a musical style that’s not only survived but has flourished over thousands of years.
“Understanding Hindustani Classical Music” aims to guide the reader on an enlightening journey through this ancient tradition. It is designed to be a comprehensive yet accessible introduction to the fundamentals, intricacies, and beauty of Hindustani classical music.
Despite the complexities and rich intricacies of Hindustani classical music, we have made a conscious effort to ensure that this book is approachable, regardless of the reader’s musical background. For those unfamiliar with musical concepts, we have taken special care to explain the technical terminologies and musical concepts prevalent in Hindustani music. For those with a background in Western music, we have drawn parallels to ease the understanding.
This book is divided into several sections, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of Hindustani classical music: its historical development, the core elements such as Raag and Taal, the iconic instruments, the role of the Guru-shishya tradition, the important Gharanas (musical lineages), and the influential artists who have shaped this tradition.
As the author, I wish to share not only an academic understanding but also a deeper emotional appreciation of Hindustani classical music. I hope this book sparks in you the same profound respect and passion for this tradition that I have been fortunate to develop over the years.
In conclusion, my aspiration is that “Understanding Hindustani Classical Music” serves as both an introductory text for newcomers and as a valuable reference for those already embarked on their musical journey. This book doesn’t claim to be the ultimate authority on this expansive subject; rather, it is a humble invitation to explore the oceanic depth and celestial heights of Hindustani classical music.
I am deeply grateful for your interest and look forward to embarking on this journey of discovery with you.
Welcome to the world of Hindustani Classical Music.
Table of Contents
Preface
xi
Chapter 1: Introduction to Hindustani Classical Music
1
- Origin and History
- Differentiating Hindustani from Carnatic Music
- Major Characteristics
- Instruments Used
Chapter 2: The Building Blocks of Hindustani Classical Music
15
- Swara: The Notes
- Raga: The Melodic Framework
- Tala: The Rhythmic Framework
- Sruti: The Microtones
- Bandish: The Composition
Chapter 3: Understanding Ragas
35
- The Concept of Raga
- Time and Season Theory in Ragas
- Anatomy of a Raga: Alap, Jor, Jhala, Gat/Bandish
- Some Prominent Ragas and Their Features
Chapter 4: Exploring Talas
57
- Basic Concept of Tala
- Major Talas in Hindustani Classical Music
- Theka and Laya: Beat Patterns and Tempo
- Avartan: The Tala Cycle
Chapter 5: The Beauty of Hindustani Vocal Music
75
- Khayal and Dhrupad Styles
- Thumri, Dadra, and Ghazal: Light Classical Genres
- Gayaki: The Vocal Styles
Chapter 6: Instrumental Music in Hindustani Tradition
97
- Sitar, Sarod, and Santoor: String Instruments
- Tabla and Pakhawaj: Percussion Instruments
- Bansuri and Shehnai: Wind Instruments
- Solo versus Accompaniment Roles
Chapter 7: Gharanas: The Musical Lineages
119
- Origin of Gharanas
- Major Gharanas and Their Characteristics
- Influence of Gharanas on Performance Styles
Chapter 8: The Concert Experience
139
- Structure of a Concert
- Understanding Aesthetics and Audience Engagement
- Role of Improvisation
Chapter 9: The Maestros: Icons of Hindustani Classical Music
159
- Biographies and Contributions of Key Figures
- Insights into Their Musical Styles
Chapter 10: Modern Trends and Innovations in Hindustani Classical Music
181
- Influence of Technology
- Fusion and Experimental Genres
- Future of Hindustani Classical Music
Appendix A: Glossary of Terms
205
Appendix B: Suggested Listening – A Discography
215
Bibliography
225
Index
231