Basic Course: The 12 Notes in Indian Music

Basic Course: The 12 Notes in Indian Music

In this course you will learn the basics of Indian vocal music. We will start from the very beginning and no previous experience is necessary.

We'll start by identifying the keys on a harmonium or a keyboard. You do not need a harmonium or a keyboard to follow along, but you can download a harmonium/keyboard app if you wish.

After this, we'll learn about the 12 notes: the seven pure (shudhdha) notes and the five flat/sharp (komal/teevra) notes.

Next, we'll learn how best to pick your scale. This is a topic that beginners are often confused about, so we will go over it carefully.

After this, we'll learn how to use a Tanpura and Tabla App. A tanpura is a drone that plays a reference note, with respect to which all the other notes are defined.

The tabla provides the rhythm: we will learn about the basic rhythm patterns (tabla bols) in Indian music, such as Teental, Ektaal, Bhajani, Keherwa, Jhaptaal etc.

Now, we'll be ready to start singing. We'll learn how to sing and practice the 12 notes. To accommodate all learners, the lessons will cover three scales: A#, G# and C. You can pick the scale that is closest to yours. Once you are comfortable with the practice lessons, you can practice them in your own scale.

We will also learn how to do basic Kharaj riyaz (practice in the lower octave) and Taar Saptak riyaz (practice in the higher octave). These exercises can help increase your vocal range.

After completing this 15 lecture course, you'll be ready to learn all genres of Indian vocal music including classical, semi-classical, devotional and Bollywood songs.

Basic Course: The 12 Notes in Indian Music