Improvisation in Indian Classical Music

The Indian teaching tradition has always been Guru-Shishya Parampara (Guru-disciple Relationship tradition.)  In case of music, this is true because music is an oral (as well as "aural") tradition. The 'audible' (aahata) music is meant to lead us to 'divine' (anaahata) music. Thus, traditionally, music has been a path to Self-realisation. It is not a mere coincidence that the word "shruti" means 'Divine Scriptures" as well as "microtone". But only a Guru can show the way. In this sense, Guru is considered greater than even God, because he shows the way to God. While,
admittedly, there can be many 'kinds' of Guru, I am here referring to the Sad-Guru, the true Guru who has realized the true Art.

The fine art of Music has many aspects: aesthetics, intuition, talent, performance, theory, etc. The Guru guides his pupil on all these aspects. While he is learning, the disciple surrenders his psyche, intellect and judgment to his Guru. Not only the disciples, but also the society give the Guru 'heaviness', 'weightage', prestige and authority, respect and awed reverence. The Guru is committed, focused , pledged, dedicated to his art, to the exclusion of everything else. And he expects his pupils to do the
same.

Part II... coming soon

Haresh Bakshi
The author manages the classical section on SudeepAudio.com