Classical Music of India

Indian Classical Music

The Indian culture not only comprises of numerous traditions or rituals, but it is also comprised of several types of music. While music is divided into many categories like Classical music, Folk music, Filmi music etc. Hence, tourists and travelers visiting India not only get to spend time at historic landmarks but also at cultural events that are host to several artsy performances.

1. Classical music:

The classical music in India is classified into two main categories namely Hindustani and Carnatic. Both the musical forms have seven notes. However, the musical forms are known to differ in compositions. When it comes to raga, Carnatic music is based on Janaka and Janya raga. While in Hindustani music that there are 32 different types. In concerts, Carnatic music is performed by a group of artist with a violin, mridangam, or kanjira. However, the Hindustani music is performed with harmonium and tabla. Overall, both the musical forms are known for their exquisite vocals. Hence, travellers at any part of the country can visit a musical event and enjoy the melody.

2. Folk music:

The India folk music is mainly developed in India to represent all cultural diversities across the country. The folk music can be divided into various sub-categories such as bhangra, dandiya, Rajasthani , lavani, and Sufi folk rock. The music is also known to originate amongst daily labourers to pass the time as well. The folk music is also associated in numerous festival celebrations and events too. Some pieces of evidence show that the folk music was founded around the 1500 BC. So, it could be that the musical form is older than all other music forms as well.

3. Filmi:

This type of music is pretty standard and widespread in India. This type of music is found in Indian cinema. They are made by a team of composers, artists, and background musicians lead by a music director. This type of music is not restricted to a particular state. It is spread across the entire country. The music mainly focuses on the lyrics, background music, and instruments used. The best music is usually the highest box office hits. This music can be pop, melody, blues, or any other style of music as well. Some of the hit songs are performed by the artists live which can be viewed by several people. However, the song is usually recorded in a studio.

4. Indian rock:

This music is a fusion of Indian music and rock music. So, it can be considered a combination of two different types of music into one. This music can have elements of folk music, Hindustani music, Carnatic music, and other music as well. The music is usually performed by bands and artists. It is rare that these bands and artists perform in Indian films. This music also has many sub-categories which include the Raga rock, Indian fusion, Indian funk, rock and roll, hard rock and heavy metal. There is also Vedic metal as well.

5. Indian pop:

The Indian pop music is also called the “I-pop” or “Hindi pop”. This type of music is mainly incorporated in Bollywood music. It is just like the pop music culture in the western countries and is sung by numerous musicians. This music is similar to Filmi music as it focuses on lyrics, meaning, background music, playback singers, instruments, and vocals. This music is widely performed on stages and live concerts as well. So, tourists visiting Indian can enjoy a fun melody of Indian pop.