Sangeetanubhava
INTRODUCTION TO CARNATIC MUSIC - II

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• Carnatic music is melody based and not harmony based. In simple terms, this means that by and large, stress is placed on rendering one note at a time. Counterpoints or chords (where more than one note is heard at a time) are generally not used.

• The system gives equal importance to melody, rhythm and lyrics.

• There is an even balance between re-creativity (soulful interpretation of the compositions of great masters) and creativity (on the spot improvisations).

• Carnatic music is a fine blend of science and art.

• The concerts are generally solo or duet but ample opportunities are given to the accompanists to display their skill.

General tips on appreciation

What does Carnatic music offer to a new listener? Primarily, it is an additional option to enjoy life! A new listener can certainly develop a taste for Carnatic music over a few sessions of listening. Over a period of time, he will become increasingly aware of its positive effects. Here are a few tips on how you can enhance your appreciation levels:

• An open mind is probably the first and foremost step to cultivate the art of listening. This will go a long way in increasing your ability to enjoy the familiar as well as the unfamiliar.

• Perseverance pays. You may not get the hang of a system overnight but repeated exposure will contribute to a greater understanding of its finer aspects.

• It is also equally vital that you exercise your independent judgment and not go by the tastes and opinions of your peers, for, it is a fact that the same piece of music can suggest different things to different people. It may even bring different responses from the same person in different hearings.

• It is advisable to start with instrumental music and then go on to vocal; the former has been found to be more communicative to the unexposed listener.

• It would also be desirable not to go in for too many technical details in the initial stages like names and definitions of every aspect connected with the system. It is better to focus your attention on the actual music - melody, rhythm etc., preferably one thing at a time. For instance, you can try to distinguish the differences in the tonal qualities and capacities of different instruments, the rhythmic vigour of different artistes and so on. Gradually you can try to recognise and even anticipate the events, like the possible tune of the succeeding line and the change in tempo. With attentive listening and sufficient exposure, you can easily perceive how different effects are created and how they affect you.

• You can slowly start participating more actively while listening. You can, for instance, hum the tune along with the artistes or try to maintain rhythm with them. Just ensure that it is not done too loudly in a public concert!

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