What is Carnatic Vocal Music?
Carnatic music is a system of music, mostly associated with South Indian states. As one of two major sub-genres of Indian Classical music that evolved from the ancient Sanatana Dharma sciences and traditions, Carnatic music’s main focus is on vocals. Even if it is played on an instrument, it is meant to be performed in a gayaki (singing) style.
The countless ragas (melodic aspect), the intricate talas (rhythmic aspect) and the myriad compositions by great composers together form the rich tapestry of Carnatic music. The Carnatic vocal form as taught today has its solid foundation in the musical trinity of Saint Tyagaraja, Muthuswamy Dikshitar and Syama Sastry. Hence, all Carnatic music is devotional in nature; it is not mere entertainment, but is meant to elevate the consciousness of the performer and listener alike.
The countless ragas (melodic aspect), the intricate talas (rhythmic aspect) and the myriad compositions by great composers together form the rich tapestry of Carnatic music. The Carnatic vocal form as taught today has its solid foundation in the musical trinity of Saint Tyagaraja, Muthuswamy Dikshitar and Syama Sastry. Hence, all Carnatic music is devotional in nature; it is not mere entertainment, but is meant to elevate the consciousness of the performer and listener alike.
