Comparing Hindustani Classical and Carnatic Vocal Classes Online

Music is itself a highly mild form of art; it helps you to deal with the ongoing thunderstorm and enables you to take a break from the harsh reality of the world. People nowadays have become quite busy with their regular hectic schedules; they hardly get time to nurture their passion and hone their skills. However, in this digital era, where almost everything has hopped onto the online platform, you can now enroll yourself in Carnatic vocal classes online and stay consistent in the learning process at your own convenience. In this specific blog, you will get to learn about the tangible differences between Carnatic music and Hindustani classical music. Stay tuned till the end!

Carnatic Vocal Classes Online: What Is Carnatic Music?

Before learning about the differences between the two forms of classical music, it is mandatory to take a look at the brief of each of them.

Carnatic sangeet or Carnatic classical music typically refers to South Indian Classical music. It comes with a rich tradition and history and is considered to be one of the gems in the music industry. Some South Indian states include Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Carnatic music consists of seven notes, also referred to as Sapta Swaras. Some of the instruments such as Mridangam, Ghatam, Morsing, Veena, Mandolin, Violin, Tanpura, etc., are used in this form of classical music.

What Is Hindustani Music?

On the other hand, Hindustani classical music is practiced in the Northern part of India. This form of classical music consists of six ragas and ten modes. The ragas can be further categorized into 72 melakartas. Some of the instruments used in Hindustani classical music are Kanjira, Kamanche, Mridangam, Murali, Pakhavaj, Rabab, Shenai, Sarangi, Sarod, Sitar, Sitar, Table, Tambura, Vina, and many more. Hindustani music doesn't have any concept of harmony or a specific method.

What Are the Differences Between Carnatic Classical Music and Hindustani Classical Music?

Now let's come to the main topic, the crucial differences between the two forms of Indian Classical music.

• Hindustani classical music originated before Carnatic music. Hindustani music synthesizes Islamic traditions, Persian Musiqu-e-Assil style, and Vedic chants. When compared, Carnatic classical music was developed during the time of the Bhakti movement in the 15th and 16th centuries.
• In Carnatic music, the primary emphasis is given to vocal music. The majority of the compositions are supposed to be sung, including the gayaki style. On the other hand, Hindustani classical music demands the requirement of a centric group. Several instruments are specifically designed to accompany the vocalist.
• The primary vocal forms of Hindustani classical music consist of Khayal, Dhrupad, Thumri, Tarana, Gazals, and Dadra. When Carnatic classical music is considered, it tends to embrace different varieties such as Niraval, Alpana, Ragam Thana Pallavi, and Kalpanaswaram.
• There are mainly 72 ragas in Carnatic classical music, whereas, in Hindustani music, there are six significant ragas.
• In Carnatic music, there is no room for improvisation. You do not have the freedom to incorporate variations. But, when Hindustani music is considered, you will get the scope to do certain improvisations and implement variations.

• In Carnatic music, both the instruments and vocals come with equal importance. But, in Hindustani music, more prestige and emphasis are being laid on the lyrics.
• In Carnatic music, their style of singing is vocal style. On the other hand, the style of singing in Hindustani music is Gharana style.
• The words used in Carnatic music are pretty significant. The vocalists express their emotions through the song. In Hindustani classical music, the terms are considered formal.
• When the song's tempo is considered in Carnatic music, it is pretty fast. With short notes, the beat of the song tends to remain constant. In Hindustani music, you will witness a slow tempo with long notes. The musical notes tend to increase with an increase in intensity.
• In Carnatic classical music, there is the existence of oscillation between the musical notes. As a result, it gives birth to spiritual and more intellectual performances. On the other hand, there is absolutely no usage of ornamentation in Hindustani music to enhance emotions.
• While Carnatic music is Homogenous, Hindustani music is heterogeneous in Indian tradition. Also, Carnatic music is intellectual and Hindustani music is secular.
• As mentioned earlier, Carnatic music typically originated in South India, whereas Hindustani classical music originated in the Northern parts of India.

Differences to Note

These are some of the essential differences between Carnatic classical and Hindustani music. If you are willing to master the art of Carnatic music, what are you waiting for? Pick up your smartphone and enroll yourself for Carnatic vocal classes online. With maximized focus and dedication, you can reach new heights and outshine others in the competitive world.

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External Articles

• Hindustani Music and Carnatic Music - An Overview of Differences
• Important Similarities and Difference Between Hindustani & Carnatic Styles of Classic Music
• Carnatic and Hindustani Classical Music - Highlights, Commonalities and Differences