How is Music Education in India keeping Indian Culture and Heritage Alive? Today we answer this question. Every student knows that music is a crucial part of every nation’s culture and past. Even the great Confucius 2500 years ago can attest to music being woven into the social and governance fabric of a nation.
Every society and nation has elements of music rooted deeply in its heritage and culture. Yet, in the 21st century, it is quite rare to find nations that are proud of this cultural heritage and even go as far as preserving it.
Families may preserve some of these art forms down from generation to generation. For the most part, however, the rich tapestry woven into culture can be easily forgotten.
This is why India is special when it comes to using its music to retain its cultural heritage. India is among the few countries (if not the only one) that has retained elements of its classical music ages passed down thousands of years. This knowledge is passed down through all levels of schooling, from primary to university level.
Indian music heritage is a great subject to work on for your academic paper. If you have such questions as “who will do my essay?” an expert writer might be better poised to tackle a paper on such a topic. Let’s dive right in.
Two Important Classical Music Genres
Even with the influence of Western culture on India, two classical musical ages (and genres) can still be discerned. These are Hindustani Classical Music and Carnatic Classical Music. The former covers the eastern, northern, and central regions of India, while the latter covers the Indian peninsula. Both ages of music emphasized wellness and living stress-free as core elements of the music, which were the prevalent themes.
Even now, however, these classical ages of Hindustan music have been fused into the more western and neo-liberal genres. Emergent musicians in the 19th and 20th centuries such as Ustad Bismillah Khan and Pandit Ravi Shankar all retain these classical influences in their art forms. AR Rahman, who is perhaps the best known musical artist from Bollywood, also retains these classical influences in his compositions.
Various top institutions in India offer instruction in music from these classical ages. Among these are the Banaras Hindu University, the University of Madras, and the University of Delhi. Classical Indian music from these ancient ages is deeply rooted in some of the countries top institutions. This is a sure reminder that India remains committed to preserving this ancient heritage, which it sees as golden.
Are You Limited to Classical Music when you’re studying Music Education in India?
Some would argue that with the changing times, it might not be plausible anymore to study classical Indian music. This rich musical heritage is surely losing its influence, yet the roots are never forgotten. One could think of this situation as a few sages being tasked with preserving this invaluable art form. Yet, many of the methodologies used in teaching these art forms, even in the top universities, are still being applied.
For example, the Gurukul system, which was an ancient student-master hermitage system, is still in the application in institutions such as MIT Punes. The Vidyalaya system is a bit more modern and structured in its approach, with the step-by-step guidance of students under the instructors and specific coursework. This is the approach widely taken in most parts of the world.
Yet, India boasts an array of other musical institutions that have taken a more contemporary approach in their teaching. So you don’t have to worry about being limited to classical teaching of Indian music if you want to go under instruction. Some of these institutions taking a more western approach to instruction include the Global Music Institute (GMI) and the KM Music Conservatory.
Music Is the Soul of Indian Heritage
From social and political commentary to topical issues on love, family, environmental conservation, and respect for all forms of life, you can’t miss anything in Hindu music. Bollywood may only be the tip of the iceberg. Yet, there is much that other societies can learn from cultural music preservation in India.
Simply put, the heart of Hindu music isn’t to drive industry and profit but to reflect the souls of the listener and composer. Being an ancient and legendary culture, there is no wonder India left behind that many impressive historical artifacts. As such, if you are a student, it would be highly advisable for you to keep on reading and discovering the topic, such as it can of the great interest.
Watch this space for updates in the Music category on Running Wolf’s Rant.
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