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Carnatic music, or Karnāṭaka saṅgītam is a system of music commonly associated with the southern part of the Indian subcontinent, with its area roughly confined to four modern states of India: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. It is one of two main subgenres of Indian classical music that evolved from ancient Hindu traditions, the other subgenre being Hindustani music. The main emphasis in Carnatic music is on vocal music; most compositions are written to be sung, and even when played on instruments, they are meant to be performed in gāyaki (singing) style.
Students are taught the basics of Carnatic music in a structured curriculum. Along with this, simple compositions are also taught in order to prepare them for performances and to give students an exposure to the variety and range of Carnatic music. Links to the lyrics and reference audios are provided to students. Why Carnatic Music is a very interesting article written by Todd McComb detailing the similarities between Carnatic & Western music. |
Curriculum |
Level 1:
Sarali Varisai – Lessons 1 to 14 in three speeds Janta Varisai – Lessons 1 to 9 in two speeds Both Sarali Varisai and Janta Varisai in akAram Level 2: Dhaatu Varisai – Lessons 1 and 2 Tara staayi Varisai – Lessons 1 to 5 Alankarams – Lessons 1 to 7 Theory: Tala Angas, Sapta Talas, Pancha jaatis,Alankarams in Sapta Talams Level 3: Geethams, Nottu Swarams Theory: Sapta Swaras – Names, Twelve variations, Arohanam and Avarohanam, Staayis Level 4: Geethams, Nottu Swarams, Swarajathis Theory: Classification of Ragas and Raga Lakshana, Advanced Tala systems – 35 Talas Level 5: Varnams – Adi Talam Krithis Theory: Melakartha Ragas and the Katapayadi sankhya, Vaaggeyakaras – Biography of eminent composers Level 6: Varnams – Ata Talam Krithis Theory: Types of compositions
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