Why Basic Carnatic Music Lessons Are Key to Musical Growth?

Introduction

Music is an art form and a global language that bridges cultural and linguistic boundaries. Carnatic music, one of the many types of music, is a classical Indian music style with a long history. Online Carnatic vocal music classes give a solid foundation for anybody interested in learning this genre. These classes go beyond simply studying the technical parts of music to help create a deeper knowledge and appreciation for the art form.

Let’s examine why fundamental Carnatic music classes are important for musical development and how they may assist students of all ages and skill levels. But before we jump to that, let’s see the two essential components of Carnatic Music.

Essential Components of Carnatic Music – Raga & Tala

Raga

Raga is the alignment of the swara in a composition. It is the system of the song which generates its melody. A sampoorna raga will include all 7 notes in ascending or descending pitch. These pitches are called Arohanam and Avrohanam.

There are 72 ragas in Sampoorna. A Raga is made up of Gamkas. Gamkas are the decorative elements of Carnatic music. There are a variety of activities that cause the flow of Ragas to go up and down. Altogether, this is what makes a song engaging and interesting. 

Ragas are also classified based on the time of the day they are generally played. The most known categories are Janaka raga and Janya raga. 

Talas

Beats and rhythm are essential components of every song or musical production. Tala is the name given to this musical blend of beats and rhythm.

Tala can come in up to 108 different variations. Carnatic vocalists generate tala by alternating between hands and figures. They do this to memorise the time intervals necessary for each tala. The most common tala in Carnatic music is Adi tala, which has 8 beats in a cycle.

Talas are made up of three distinct pieces. Angas, dhrtam, and anudhrtam are all names. Some of the other popular talas in Carnatic music are Eka tala, Dhruv tala, Jhampa tala, Matya tala, Ripuka tala and Triputa tala. Talas remain constant in Carnatic compositions. 

Here is how Carnatic music lessons are key to musical growth.

1. Developing vocal technique

Carnatic music is primarily a vocal music genre, and the fundamental music classes online help students in developing their vocal technique. Students learn the right breathing techniques, voice modulation, and diction. These methods help in developing a clean and strong voice, which is necessary for singing Carnatic music. Students are also taught the significance of posture and how it impacts their singing.

2. Improving musical memory

Carnatic music basics theory begins with learning melodies and compositions. This enhances students’ musical memory and recall. One understands song structure, placement of Swaras, lyrics, and compositional rhythm. Students build their musical memory as they practise and memorise songs, which is necessary for graduating to more advanced levels of Carnatic music.

3. Enhancing musical creativity

Carnatic music is more than merely memorising and singing songs. Many more aspects like improvisation and originality are also needed. Gamakas (ornaments), numerous sorts of sangatis (variations), and the technique of kalpana swara (improvisation within a predetermined beat) are taught in Carnatic music lessons to students. These strategies help students in developing their own personal style and approach to Carnatic music.

4. Cultivating a sense of rhythm 

Carnatic music is distinguished by its elaborate rhythmic patterns. The fundamental lessons help students in developing a sense of rhythm and timing. One is also taught about several talas (rhythmic cycles) and how to count them. They also study the significance of laya (tempo) and how it influences overall performance. Students can play complicated pieces with ease if they have a good sense of rhythm.

5. Building confidence and self-discipline
   

Carnatic music demands attention and discipline to learn. Basic classes teach the value of regular practice and hard effort, which helps them build a feeling of self-discipline. Students’ confidence and self-esteem grow as they go through the levels of learning. They acquire the confidence to perform in front of an audience and receive criticism, which allows them to enhance their abilities.

Conclusion

Getting Carnatic vocal music classes online is essential for anybody who wishes to advance as a musician in the singing style. It not only teaches the key elements of music, but it also installs in students discipline, patience, and creativity. 

At Artium Academy, aspiring artists can attend our online classes that are tailored to your specific requirements and schedules. Our knowledgeable instructors provide guidance and assistance to ensure that students get the most out of their musical experience. Book a free trial and start with the basics of Carnatic music to work your way up!