Pitch and Melody. A raga (pronounced RAH-guh) is a collection of pitches, kind of like a scale or mode in Western music. Each raga is defined, however, not only by the pitches themselves, but also by specific formulas for using them. A 1000+ year old style of singing.
Indian music is as vast and varied as the country from which it comes. Based upon ancient tradition, Indian classical music is characterized by intricate and subtle melodies and complex rhythms. To a novice listener, the complexity of Indian music might seem overwhelming, but knowing just a few basics can give you the tools to appreciate the art form’s spectacular richness.
Learning about Indian music offers a window not only to an interesting musical tradition, but also to an ancient and multifaceted culture. Reflected within Indian music’s melodies, rhythmic patterns, sustained pitches, and improvisational nature are thousands of years of oral tradition and a deep spiritual sensibility that pervades many aspects of Indian life.
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