Different Genres of Indian Vocal Training
With the rise of digital learning, platforms offering Online Carnatic classes, online folk singing classes, online ghazal classes, Hindustani vocal classes online, and ghazal singing lessons have made it easier than ever for aspiring vocalists to learn from the comfort of their homes.
The different types of singing styles and their properties throughout the entire Indian Subcontinent:
1. Khayal
2. Carnatic Vocals
Carnatic singing is a style of classical vocal music that originates from the southern regions of India, particularly from the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
Padam expresses slow, emotive themes, while Javali adds a playful touch with themes of love. Ragamalika seamlessly transitions between multiple ragas, and Tillana showcases brisk, rhythmic patterns.
3. Thumri
4. Tappa
5. Dhrupad
6. Seasonal Songs
Three such musical genres include -
a). Kajri
b). Chaiti
c). Hori
7. Sufi Singing Style
Sufi songs are inspired by the works of Sufi saints and poets such as Rumi, Amir Khusrau, Bulleh Shah, and Hafiz. Two singing styles come under this genre –
a). Qawwali
Qawwali performances are known for their high energy and emotional intensity. The music builds gradually, creating a powerful and captivating atmosphere.
The Qawwali singing style demands a very strong and bold voice that can balance the tenderness of the lower octave as effectively as they unwaveringly dwell in the higher octaves.
b). Ghazal
The melodies are soft and tender, bound into a rolling rhythm and tune. The singing style is more conversational even when it involves intricate melodic phrases. The emphasis is always on emotions and how subtly yet deeply you can express them.
This is one musical genre that does not have a mass appeal nor does it care for it. It is an acquired taste that very few have a penchant for.
8. Regional Songs
India is home to diverse cultures – each profusely rich in literature, music, and dance. Regional songs bear the essence of these cultural emblems. Each region presents a distinct singing style that has a bit of semi-classical music blended with classical and other modern genres.
These songs serve as a preserver of the language and culture of a particular region. These are modern songs that speak about diverse emotions, relationships, and life in general.
9. Folk Songs
Folk songs in India cover a wide range of themes, often revolving around nature, love, festivals, harvest, and historical events. Many folk songs are narrative, recounting tales of heroism, love stories, and mythological events. These songs serve as a medium for oral storytelling, preserving cultural history and traditions.
The singing styles of the folk music of each region have a distinct flair. Here, it is essential to clarify that folk music is not similar to regional music.
Folk music has a rural influence and is deeply rooted in folklore and cultures whereas regional songs are modern songs in the language of that state.
10. Rabindra Sangeet
Rabindra sangeet could have easily been sidelined as a regional song. But such a refined, voluminous body of work that has influenced the thought process of numerous poets, lyricists, music composers, and singers for more than eight to nine decades across geographies and generations, certainly needs a special mention in this list.
Rabindra sangeet picks elements from Bishnupuri Dhrupad style, Sufi poems, western tunes, and also folk music. The singing style calls for a full-throat voice, clear pronunciation, and subtly emotive delivery.
11. Patriotic Songs
The singing style of Indian patriotic songs is inspiring, deeply emotional, and filled with a sense of pride and patriotism.
Mostly, the melodies are relatively simple and rhythmic. Patriotic songs often involve dynamic phrasing, with singers modulating their voices to convey various emotions. Changes in pitch, volume, and tempo are used to emphasize key moments in the lyrics, creating a compelling and engaging performance.
Some patriotic songs of India have devotional undertones, especially those that venerate the nation as a symbol of divinity.
Patriotic songs are frequently sung by groups, and the chorus plays a significant role. The collective voice of a choir or a group of singers enhances the sense of unity and solidarity, reinforcing the communal spirit of patriotism.
12. Bhajan
Bhajans are devotional songs commonly associated with Hindu religious traditions, expressing love, devotion, and praise towards a particular deity. The singing style of Bhajans is characterized by a deep spiritual connection, simplicity, and a focus on expressing devotion.
Bhajans typically feature simple and easy-to-follow melodies. The emphasis is on accessibility, allowing a wide range of people to participate in devotional singing. The melodies often draw from traditional ragas but are presented in a way that is accessible to both trained and untrained singers.
Bhajans often require a singer to convey specific emotions associated with the lyrics. Whether it’s love, surrender, or joy, the singer uses vocal nuances, tonal variations, and expressive phrasing to communicate the emotional content of the Bhajan.
13. Kirtan
While Bhajans are marked by soft and simple melodies, Kirtans are characterized by a highly energetic and rhythmic singing style.
It starts at a low pitch and slow pace. Gradually, it reaches the crescendo in a pulsating and repetitive progression. In the process, it involves the entire crowd of people present.
It is sung in a call-and-response format, where a lead singer initiates a line or verse, and the congregation or a group of singers responds.
14. Film Songs
Songs are used in Indian films as a part of storytelling. The singing style requires an extremely versatile voice.
The most successful voice types that have reigned the arena of film songs include – soprano and mezzo-soprano for females and tenor for male singers.
Indian film songs have been an amalgamation of diverse musical genres starting from Indian classical music to folk to even western musical genres. The influence of regional songs has also been very strong. All the influences have given rise to a distinctive singing style that has a mass appeal.
The Rise of Online Learning Platforms
The advent of online learning has revolutionised Indian vocal music training. Aspiring singers can now enroll in Online singing classes, Online Carnatic classes, online ghazal classes, Hindustani vocal classes online, and personalised ghazal singing lessons with experienced mentors from around the world.
Benefits of online training include:
- Flexibility: Learn at your own pace and schedule.
- Access to Experts: Train under renowned gurus from different regions.
- Customized Curriculum: Tailored lessons to suit individual learning styles.
- Technology Integration: Use of apps and software for pitch correction and practice.
Understanding different genres, sources origins and key characteristics, and common training methods of different singing genres of India:
| Vocal Genre | Region | Key Characteristic | Common Training Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hindustani Music | North India | Improvisation, Raaga-Taal framework | Alankar, Bandish, and Tanpura practices |
| Carnatic Music | South India | Complex rhythms, lyrical compositions | Varnams, Krithis, Taal exercises |
| Ghazal | Pan India | Poetic expression, emotional depth | Voice modulations, Urdu diction |
| Bhajan | Pan India | Devotional lyrics, simple melodies | Repetition, emotional connection |
| Folk Music | Regional | Cultural storytelling, traditional tunes | Call-response, folk instruments |
Conclusion
Indian vocal music training offers a deep and enriching journey, whether one is pursuing Hindustani, Carnatic, or other forms like ghazal. The growing availability of Hindustani vocal classes online, ghazal singing lessons, Online Carnatic singing, online folk singing, and other digital platforms ensures that this traditional art remains accessible to learners across the globe. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, online resources provide an excellent opportunity to master the rich and varied landscape of Indian vocal music.
