Short Written Assignment Prompt Based On The Reading ✓ Solved
Short Written Assignment Prompt: Based upon the reading for this module and the below video discuss the use of the raga in Indian Classical Music
Discuss the use of the raga in Indian Classical Music based on the reading for this module and the provided video. Include one specific example from the module reading and two examples from the video, with appropriate in-text citations. The assignment should be a minimum of 250 words and include your thoughts and opinions. Citations should follow MLA, APA, or Chicago format, with references listed at the end.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
Introduction
Indian classical music is distinguished by its intricate and expressive use of ragas, which serve as foundational melodic frameworks. The concept of raga is central in both Hindustani (North Indian) and Carnatic (South Indian) traditions, though each tradition has unique practices. This essay explores the use and significance of ragas in Indian classical music, supported by insights from the module reading and Ravi Shankar's video explanation.
The Concept of Raga
According to the module reading, a raga comprises a set of melodic patterns characterized by specific ascent and descent sequences, as well as unique notes and phrases known as pakad (Music of India, 2014). These elements differentiate one raga from another and give it its distinctive character. Ravi Shankar emphasizes that ragas are based on one of 72 different octave scales, and within each scale, musicians have the freedom to improvise around the core notes and phrases (Shankar, 2012).
Examples of Raga Usage
Shankar discusses how two ragas—Raga Bhupali and Raga Deshkar—share similar notes but differ significantly in emphasis and note importance, which defines their identity (Shankar, 2012). For instance, Raga Bhupali highlights its third note during ascent and descent, whereas Raga Deshkar emphasizes its sixth note, changing the raga's overall mood and sound. This demonstrates how subtle variations in note importance alter the raga’s character.
Furthermore, the importance of specific notes and the pakad phrase is crucial for identifying and differentiating ragas. Ravi Shankar mentions that without these cues, recognizing a raga becomes challenging, which underscores their significance in performance and improvisation (Shankar, 2012). The flexibility in improvisation within the raga framework allows musicians to express personal artistry while adhering to traditional structures.
The Complexity and Uniqueness of Ragas
The module reading notes that each raga possesses its own natural register (ambit) and glissando rules (meend), which add to its complexity (Music of India, 2014). The improvisational aspect, based on the raga’s structure, enables a wide variety of expressions. Ravi Shankar illustrates that this improvisational nature is rooted in the raga’s melodic formulas, making it both intellectually stimulating and emotionally expressive (Shankar, 2012).
Personal Reflection
I find the concept of ragas fascinating because they represent more than just scales—each embodies a specific mood, time of day, and emotional expression. The emphasis on tonal importance and improvisation indicates that Indian classical music is not only rooted in tradition but also allows for personal artistry. Its complexity and richness make it distinct from Western music and contribute to its allure and depth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ragas are integral to Indian classical music, serving as melodic frameworks that guide improvisation and performance. As demonstrated through the examples and explanations provided by Ravi Shankar and the module reading, ragas are defined by their specific notes, phrases, and ornamentation, which collectively evoke mood and emotion. Understanding these elements deepens appreciation for the sophistication and artistry of Indian classical music.
References
- Music of India. (2014). New World Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org
- Shankar, Ravi. (2012). “Raga: a personal introduction by Ravi Shankar.” YouTube, uploaded by krimkari, 2 September 2012.