Indian Classical Instrumental Music (Shastriya Vadya Sangeet)
This is a traditional and ancient form of music that originated in the Indian subcontinent. It is based on the principles of Indian classical music, emphasizing melody (Raga), rhythm (Taala), and improvisation.
Characteristics
- Based on Ragas (melodic modes) and Taalas (rhythmic cycles).
- Emphasis on technical virtuosity and profound musical expression.
- Often features intricate improvisations and compositions (Gat).
- Typically performed on traditional Indian instruments.
Traditional Indian Instruments
- Dholak
- Harmonium
- Flute (Bansuri)
- Tabla
- Mridangam
- Sitar
- Tanpura
- Guitar
- Sarod
Types of Instrumental Music
- Solo Instrumental Music: Features a single instrument, often with a tanpura (drone) accompaniment.
- Jugalbandi: Features two instruments playing a duet, often with a tanpura accompaniment.
- Instrumental Ensemble Music: Features multiple instruments playing together, often with a tanpura accompaniment.
Famous Indian Classical Instrumentalists
- Sitar: Ravi Shankar, Vilayat Khan, Nikhil Banerjee
- Sarod: Ali Akbar Khan, Amjad Ali Khan, Aashish Khan
- Flute: Hariprasad Chaurasia, Raghunath Seth
- Tabla: Zakir Hussain, Kishan Maharaj, Shankar Ghosh
