Welcome to the course on the history of traditional Hindu music, also known as Shastriya Sangeet, with a specific focus on Karnatic music. In this class, we will delve into the diverse and rich traditions of Hindu music, tracing the evolution of Karnatic music over time.
We will begin by exploring the origins of Indian music, starting from the ancient Sama Vedic chants to the musical distinctions in the Natyasastra of Bharata Muni and Silappathikaram to the Bhakti movement of the first millennium. We will then examine how texts such as Sangita Ratnakara and Chaturdandi Prakasika have evolved over the course of the 2nd millennium and how Islamic and Arab/Persian traditions have influenced Indian music.
Throughout the course, we will learn about the history and current state of Indian music in India and across the diaspora through a mix of lectures, discussions, reading assignments, and guided listening experiences. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of the unique and complex cultural heritage of Hindu music, including Karnatic music.
Our learning objectives for this course are to familiarize ourselves with the names and works of music scholars and famous musicians such as Bharata's Natya Sastra, Illango Adigal's Silappathikaram, Sarangdev's Sangita Ratnakara, Venkatamakhi's Chaturdandi Prakasika, Subbarama Dikshitar's Sangita Sampradaya Pradarsini, and Pandit Bhatkhande's work. We will also learn about the impact of traditional Indian and Hindu music on the study and perception of Indian music in the West. Additionally, we will discuss the contributions of the Bhakti movement and Hindu saints from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Bengal to Indian art music. We will also explore the significance of Vaggeyakaras and the sacred geography of India on art music. Furthermore, we will examine how Islamic and Persian traditions have influenced Indian music, as well as the role of the Devadasi tradition in Indian art. Finally, we will discuss the challenges that Indian music faces today.
The class will meet for at least one hour each week, during which students will be encouraged to engage in discussions and exchange ideas related to the topics covered in class. While the content of each session will be delivered in an hour, students will have the opportunity to continue the discussion for an additional 30 minutes. Additionally, students will be required to write two short essays during the course, which will allow them to demonstrate their understanding of the material covered.
Join us on a fascinating journey through the history of traditional Indian music and Hindu music and gain an in-depth understanding of this unique and complex cultural heritage.
CONTACT — 407–205–2118
Overview >> Hindu University Of America
EMAIL- [email protected]
Address- 5200 Vineland Rd 125 Orlando, FL 32811
