Indian classical music

• What is the basis of a RAGA performance in Indian Classical Music?

  A RAGA performance relies on a RAGA (scale) and TALA (rhythm).
• What elements are added to a RAGA performance by the performers?

  Considerable improvisation and ornamentation are added by the performers.
• How long can some RAGA performances last?

  Some performances can last all night.
• What are TALAS in Indian Classical Music?

  TALAS are cyclic/repeating rhythm patterns played by the TABLA.
• What is the most popular TALA and how many beats does it have?

  The most popular TALA is called TINTAL, which has 16 beats per cycle.
• How are beats marked in Indian Classical Music?

  Hand claps and waves are used to mark certain beats.
• What are the three basic layers of texture in Indian Classical Music?

  • MELODY: Voice, Sitar, Sarangi, Bansuri, Esraj, or Sarod performing the melodic form of the Raga.
  • DRONE: Tanpura or Harmonium performing long sustained notes.
  • RHYTHM: Tabla performing the rhythmic Tala.
• What texture do the opening three sections of a RAGA performance have?

  The opening three sections have a 2-part texture (melody and drone).
• What texture does the final Gat (or Bandish) section of a RAGA performance have?

  The final Gat section has a 3-part texture when the Tabla enters.
• When did Indian Classical Music develop?

  Indian Classical Music developed around 1700 BC.
• How were Ragas and Talas traditionally learned?

  Ragas and Talas were learned by the oral tradition through a master-student tradition.
• What role does spirituality play in Indian Classical Music?

  Spirituality, particularly Hinduism, is an important part of Indian Classical Music.
• What are RAGAS associated with in terms of time and mood?

  RAGAS are associated with a particular time of day or night or season and have different moods.
• What is the notation used for writing RAGAS?

  RAGAS are written down using SARGAM notation.
• What are the four sections of a RAGA performance?

  1. ALAP: Melody and drone, free, unmetred, slow, soft.
  2. JHOR (JOR): Melody and drone, increase in speed, more rhythmic.
  3. JHALA: Melody and drone, more speed and improvisation.
  4. GAT (BANDISH): Tabla enters, tempo and dynamics increase.
• How do dynamics change throughout a RAGA performance?

  Dynamics generally increase throughout a Raga performance, starting softly and culminating in a loud ending.
• What is the role of Indian Classical musicians during a performance?

  Indian Classical musicians must work together to interpret the music and perform effectively as one.
• How has modern technology impacted traditional Indian music?

  Traditional Indian music is now available via the internet and heard in cinema, radio, and live concerts.
• What are some typical instruments used in Indian Classical Music?

  • SITAR
  • TANPURA
  • SAROD
  • SARANGI
  • ESRAJ
  • HARMONIUM
  • BANSURI
  • TABLA
• Who are some notable artists associated with Indian Classical Music?

  Ravi Shankar, Anoushka Shankar, and Alla Rakha are notable artists.