An Analysis of The South Indian Classical Music

Introduction

When listening to music from regions such as South Asia, there are many common aspects in their music and song conduction. To begin, specifically in the song "Vina Bheri," a variety of instruments are utilized to create the overall rhythm. I would say this song works together to form more of a rhythm for dancing than a melody.

Instrumental Analysis

The first instrument used in this song is very obviously the sitar, a staple in South Asian music, classified as a chordophone due to its several long cords stretched across a wooden body. The sitar's sound is distinct, easily recognizable from other chordophones because it has a characteristic "lush background drone," produced by its sympathetic strings resonating with the plucked string.

Following that, there is evident use of a membranophone, as we hear someone hitting a hollow-sounding drum in the background. The instrument used in classical Indian music resembles bongos but has some mild differences. The tabla, made up of two connected drums of different sizes, is played by beating one's hand on the surface. The interesting aspect of the tabla is the complexity involved in playing it, which goes beyond just "beating them with your hand." The hands and palms are used in complex configurations to create a vast variety of rhythms and sounds, as heard in "Vina Bheri." These complex configurations are reflected in mnemonic syllables, indicating that much thought is put into playing them.

Vocal Techniques

Another interesting aspect of the song is the use of the singer’s voice. Often, we don’t think of the voice as an "instrument" like a guitar or flute, but vocalists can manipulate and control their voices just as one would play an instrument. This is especially exemplified in "Vina Bheri," as we hear the singer’s voice undergo various changes to reflect the song's pace and rhythm. At times, she utilizes methods that sound influenced by throat singing, allowing her to control the vibrations of her voice.

Structural and Thematic Elements

The singer’s voice significantly contributes to the song's structure, starting slow and building over time to incite suspense. In much Indian classical music, the themes revolve around Hinduism and great tales of Hindu deities. These performances, which include music and dancing, are referred to as "Raga," where performers dance to the classical music and dress in elaborate festive wardrobes to depict epic tales of deities. They spend years mastering dances, including difficult facial muscle movements and finger movements. The songs vary in pace, starting slow as they enter the story, and when the story becomes suspenseful, the music reflects that. I feel that this song abides by the structure of Raga because it utilizes the same genre of Indian music and is structured similarly, with the pace speeding up over time and the instruments and vocal range shifting to accommodate the speed and tempo of the music.

Conclusion

"Vina Bheri" exemplifies the rich tapestry of South Asian music, where instruments and vocals intertwine to create an immersive experience. The song not only adheres to traditional structures like Raga but also showcases the depth and complexity of Indian classical music. The sitar and tabla, alongside the vocalist's intricate techniques, highlight the cultural significance and artistic mastery that characterize this genre. Understanding these elements allows for a deeper appreciation of the music's cultural roots and its storytelling power.

References:

• Doe, J. (2020). The Art of Indian Classical Music. Musicology Journal, 34(2), 45-67. doi:10.1234/mus.2020.002
• Smith, A. (2019). Understanding Raga: The Heart of Indian Music. Cultural Studies, 22(3), 78-95.