MUSIC, TRADITION AND THE INTERNET - Part III

In modern times the ideal system of Guru-disciple Relationship is soon becoming difficultly accessible. There are many reasons for this, even if we presume the Guru and the disciple to be ideal. Some of the constraints are as follows:

(1) Change in attitude. The system of Guru-Shishya Parampara is very demanding on time and talent. The student of today is too busy with his daily chores, demands and priorities, where music can be assigned only a place of insignificance or of oblivion.

(2) Time/Distance factor. The student is often required to spend too much time travelling to reach his Guru's home, or the music school. Time is to be considered not only in terms of regular visits to the Guru, but also in terms of the duration of training.

(3) Non-availability of a Guru. Indians are spread far and wide in the world (from America to Zambia -- as the expression goes). There are several places where Indians have settled, where a music teacher is simply not available.

(4) High tuition cost. Learning music has become unaffordable for many.

(5) Changes in methods and criteria. The teaching of music threatens to become an exercise in information system rather than adoration and accomplishment in a fine art. The goal of learning has shifted from excellence in achievement to quick and publicly demonstrable results. Music tends to be used as a tool for display by the extrovert, rather than as a source of immense bliss by the introvert. Simply put, music follows and depicts the modern social trends.

............. Continued to part IV

Part I | Part II

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