Indian Classical Music And Sikh Kirtan
by Gobind Singh Mansukhani (M.A., LL.B, Ph.D.) © 1982
Sikh KirtanIn the first part of this work, Dr. Mansukhani has dealt with the origin and history of Indian classical music. He has explained the fundamentals of the system and analyzed competently the different aspects of major Ragas and Talas of Hindustani music. Though he does not minimize the value of instrumental music, he affirms that vocal music holds an important place in India and as such voice training and modulation must get proper attention.

The second part of the book is devoted to a critical study of Kirtan -- a traditional form recognized by the Indian Sangeet Natak Academy. Kirtan is a special esthetic form which blends the excellence of poetry with high melody. The Bhakti poets helped in evolution of Kirtan. The Sikh Kirtan is a notable contribution of the 10 Gurus.

Though Sikh Kirtan may not be called a separate school of Indian music, it is generally accepted as a distinct tradition by musicologists. The Gurus enriched devotional music both in classical and folk styles. Their Shabads combined the beauty and significance of inspirational poetry with melodic excellence. They produce a feeling of the super conscious and link human consciousness with the supreme reality.

The author examines the different styles of Sikh Kirtan in the special features of the Ragas used in the Sikh scripture. For the first time the, the notation of 31 Ragas of Guru Granth Sahib has been supplied with necessary particulars. The book is a work of research on an important musical tradition and deserves a place on the shelves of public and private libraries.
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Show details for * Forward - Preface - Introduction - About the Author* Forward - Preface - Introduction - About the Author
Show details for PART I: Indian MusicPART I: Indian Music
Show details for PART II: Sikh KirtanPART II: Sikh Kirtan
Show details for Bibliography - Appendix - Glossary - IndexBibliography - Appendix - Glossary - Index
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