TIPS FOR STUDENTS OF INDIAN CLASSICAL MUSIC - BY RUJUL PATHAK
The vital prerequisite in being a successful student of any Indian Art is love for that particular art form and lots of hard work and patience. It is more so in the case of Hindustani styled Vocal Classical Music. There are so many aspects to this art form, that you can never say, that you have learnt enough. There is nothing like enough! I have come across scores of people who have an infatuation with this art, take it up with lots of vigour and then leave it in a matter of days! Strange, but true. Indian classical music is not something which will give you instant rewards and gratification. Chances are you will sound like hell when you take your first "Surs"(Notes) but, then there's where you've got to begin! And then, with continuous "RIYAAZ"(Practice) and the RIGHT training from the RIGHT teacher, you will achieve success. And take my word; the success will inspire you to reach even higher levels of proficiency.
Another important thing is LISTENING. Go to as many concerts as possible. Don't limit yourself to only the known names and the established artists. Listen to new talents and discover new techniques. There is a certain amount of freshness, you discover when you listen to young artistes. If you limit yourself to particular styles and only known artistes it will be like reaching for a dead end.
TUNING your instruments comes with time. The more you listen, the better you will understand correct "SURS"(Notes), and with this understanding you will definitely be able to tune up your instruments.
I have been learning Indian Classical Music for many years now and so I can say with conviction that it is the most rewarding of art forms.
I am also a student of the Indian Classical dance "KATHAK" for the last decade. And it may sound surprising but, after a vigourous round of "Tatkaar"(Footwork steps in the dance) and "Todas"(Pre-set movements performed in a cycle of beats) you will actually feel rejuvenated and fresh. You may feel ready to take on a thousand challenges after one round of "KATHAK riyaaz".All rules of Indian music also apply to Indian classical dance.
One thing although is very vital. The Indian forms of classical music and dance require total devotion. You will rarely find an artiste who is active in both these art forms. I consider myself fortunate of being an exception to the above hypotheses. Dance has given me a sense of balance and agility, which has improved my understanding of Music. Music on the other hand has made me appreciate "Sur" in dance. Music and Dance are complementary in nature and hence it's a gift to understand both the art forms fully, in their diversity as well as in their unity.
Therefore the keys to being a good student are few, Nonetheless they are difficult. Like the legendary Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, a vocalist of great claibre once said "Riyaaz is your only faithful companion on the stage, It will save your prestige in the most testing of times."
As I put it "Music and dance will be your
faithful companions in the beautiful journey of life; your two very best friends..."