North Indian Classical Music

• Understand the basic concepts and terminology of North Indian Classical Music, and be able to sing or play on your instrument, a few compositions in Ragas.
• Understand the form, structure and elements of a typical vocal and instrumental performance of Hindustani Classical Music, and be able to appreciate, some of the finer nuances of what a vocal or instrumental performer is presenting in a concert.
• Have sufficient understanding of the concepts and techniques of Hindustani Classical Music to enable you to experiment with applying these to your own instrument.

Courses under this program:
Course 1: North Indian Classical Music I: Fundamental Elements
-

This is the first course of the North Indian Classical Music program, which aims to introduce this music tradition to any music motivated learner by combining theoretical and practical teaching approaches. This course presents the fundamental elements of North Indian Classical Music, from the Swara (note) and Laya (tempo) to the concepts of Raga (melodic framework) and Tala (rhythm framework). By the end of the course, the student will be able to sing basic scales and patterns and will be…

Course 2: North Indian Classical Music II: Raga Composition and Development
-

This course takes a student beyond the basic physical construction of the Raga and Tala, and helps understand the aesthetic principles, which are later used for development during a performance.
The course begins with a closer and more detailed look at the Raga, and explains the concepts of Chalan of a Raga, and the relative importance of musical notes used, through the Vaadi and Samvaadi swara. Later on, the course will explain the language of the Tabla, and how this is used to aesthetically…

Course 3: North Indian Classical Music III: Performance Practice
-

A Hindustani Classical Music performance acquires that mystical element mainly due to its improvisational nature. However, the form and structure of a performance is quite well-defined, and followed by all irrespective of the style.
This course begins with explaining the structure of the two basic forms most prevalent today, the Khayal for Vocal performance, and the Alaap, Jod, Jhala and Gat for some instruments.Later on, the course delves into how a composition is used as a platform to develop…