CARNATIC MUSIC Flashcards
Gitam:
The simplest kind of composition is called a Gitam. It has a very easy and melodic musical flow and a very
simple structure.
Suladi:
The Suladis are of a higher calibre than the gitam, but have devotional theme.
Vilambita, Madhya, and Drupata are the three tempos in which suladis are composed.
Svarajati:
They are a precursor for learning varnams. It is divided into three parts: Pallavi, Anupallavi, and Charanam
Varnam:
It is an example of masterful musical craftsmanship that incorporates every defining element of the raga it
is based on.
Jatiswaram:
It has no sahitya or words and is very similar to the svarajati in musical structure. It falls under the
dance music category.
Kirtanam:
The kirtanam is replete with Bhakti bhava. It is appropriate for both solo performances and group singing.
The first kirtana composers to use the sections pallavi, anupallavi, and charanas were the Talapakam composers of
the fifteenth century.
Kriti:
It is a very advanced genre of music. In this form, the rich and varied colours of the raga and bhava are brought
out. The three basic and necessary angas of a kriti are the pallavi, anupallavi, and charanam.
Javali:
A composition that falls into the category of light classical music is called a javali
Tillana:
The Tillana is a short and crisp form. It is mainly a dance form, but on account of its brisk and attractive
music, it sometimes finds a place in music concerts as a conclusion piece
Pallavi:
This is the most significant area of creative composition. The first three words in the term Pallavi are Padam
(words); Layam (time); and Vinyasam (variations).
Tanam:
This belongs to the raga alapana branch with a noticeable rhythm to it. It has intriguing patterns and rhythmic
flow. The word “Anantam” is skillfully incorporated into the melodic patterns.
