True or False: Hindustani Classical Music is Learned Through Enculturation
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This is a tricky question, and the answer may depend on who you ask. Some believe that Hindustani classical music is passed down through generations and learned through enculturation. Others believe that it can be learned through formal training and study. So, what is the answer?
Introduction
Hindustani classical music is an Indian classical music tradition that originated in northern India around the 13th and 14th centuries. The style is sometimes also called North Indian classical music or Śāstriya Sangīt. It is a standardised and westernised form of traditional Hindustani music, lays great emphasis on improvisation and emotion-oriented rāgas, and uses fewer percussion instruments.
What is Hindustani Classical Music?
Hindustani classical music is a tradition that dates back centuries. It is a genre of music that is characterized by its use of improvisation, melodic and rhythmic patterns, and a tonal system that is unique to the region. In order to learn Hindustani classical music, one must go through a process of enculturation, which means learning the music through exposure to its culture.
History of Hindustani Classical Music
Hindustani classical music is a tradition that arose in what is now North India and Pakistan around the 13th and 14th centuries. It is sometimes referred to as “North Indian classical music” or “Shāstriya Sangīt”. In contrast to Carnatic music, the other main tradition of classical music in southern India, Hindustani music was not only influenced by ancient Hindu musical traditions, but also by the Persian invasions of the 12th century. This resulted in a synthesis of Perso-Arabic and Hindu elements that incorporates strong melodic and rhythmic aspects from both cultures.
The Learning Process of Hindustani Classical Music
Hindustani classical music is an oral tradition, meaning that it is learned and passed down through teachers and students, rather than through written notation. This means that the music is always evolving, as each new generation of musicians puts their own stamp on the tradition.
While there is no one “right” way to play Hindustani classical music, there are certain conventions that are followed by most musicians. These conventions are largely unwritten, but are passed down through oral tradition and example. This process of learning through enculturation is how most Hindustani classical musicians learn the music.
The Importance of a Guru
In Hindustani (North Indian) classical music, the role of the guru is essential. The word “guru” comes from two Sanskrit words: gu means “darkness” and ru means “light.” A guru is therefore a person who brings light into our lives, who dispels the darkness of ignorance.
The traditional relationship between guru and student is one of complete trust and surrender. The student places his or her faith in the wisdom and experience of the teacher, and opens him- or herself up to learning in the most complete way possible. The bond between guru and student is considered to be very special and sacred, and it is thought that the blessings of the guru are necessary in order to progress on the spiritual path.
This relationship is based on the concept of shakti pat – literally, “the placing of Shakti (divine energy) into someone.” When a guru accepts a student, he or she is essentially taking on responsibility for that person’s spiritual welfare. It is believed that the guru’s blessings are necessary in order to make progress on the spiritual path.
The Role of the Shishya
In order to become a successful musician, one must have a passion and aptitude for music, and must also undergo years of rigorous training under the guidance of a qualified guru. The relationship between guru and shishya (disciple) is one of the most important aspects of Hindustani classical music, as the guru is responsible for not only teaching musical technique, but also for imparting knowledge about the culture and tradition of this music to their students.
The role of the shishya is to learn from their guru in an atmosphere of respect and reverence, and to apply themselves diligently to their studies. A good shishya will also be open-minded and receptive to feedback, so that they can continue to improve their skills.
Hindustani classical music is an oral tradition, which means that it is passed down from generation to generation through the medium of performance. This means that in order to learn this music, one must first be exposed to it by listening to it being played by others. Only once a person has developed a love and appreciation for the music will they be able to commit themselves to the hard work required to learn it.
The Eight Main Gharanas of Hindustani Classical Music
There are eight main gharanas of Hindustani classical music, each with its own distinct style and traditions. The gharanas are:
Agra: This gharana is known for its strong and powerful vocal style. The Agra gharana is also known for its innovative and unique repertoire.
Alladiya Khan: This gharana is known for its unique approach to melody and rhythm. Alladiya Khan was a renowned composer and performer, and his repertoire is still performed today.
Bellary: This gharana is known for its use of improvisation and complex rhythmic patterns. Bellary musicians are also known for their virtuosity and their ability to create new musical forms.
Gwalior: This gharana is known for its lyrical and expressive style. Gwalior musicians are also known for their mastery of the sitar and the Sarangi.
Jaipur-Atrauli: This gharana is known for its highly embellished and ornate vocal style. Jaipur-Atrauli musicians are also known for their use of rare ragas (melodic structures).
Kirana: This gharana is known for its soulful and introspective vocal style. Kirana musicians are also known for their use of microtones (notes that fall between the conventional twelve notes of Western music).
Patiala: This gharana is known for its powerful and dramatic vocal style. Patiala musicians are also known for their use of complex rhythmic patterns.
The Future of Hindustani Classical Music
Hindustani classical music is an ancient form of music that is still widely practiced today. Though it has undergone some changes over the centuries, it remains largely unchanged from its origins. Because of its long history and cultural significance, Hindustani classical music is often seen as a symbol of Indian national identity.
Despite its popularity, there is a lack of clarity about the future of Hindustani classical music. Many experts believe that the traditional methods of teaching and learning are no longer effective in today’s fast-paced world. As a result, there is a danger that the art form may slowly fade away.
One solution that has been proposed is to make Hindustani classical music more accessible to young people by incorporating it into the school curriculum. This would ensure that future generations have the opportunity to learn about and appreciate this important part of Indian culture.
