How to Practice Hindustani Music Exercises

Hindustani is a type of classical Indian music. It's based on the raga system, a melodic scale with 7 basic notes (sapta swar): sa, re, ga, ma pa, dha and ni. The sapta swar is equal to the Western movable do solfege of do, re, mi, fa, sol, la, ti, do. To move your voice on the sapta swar scale of Indian music, you need practice. Learn how to practice Hindustani exercises.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Set you mind in the right frame. Be positive and focused. Anyone who can talk can sing through careful practice and close listening.

2. Know the 2 main types of vocal compositions in Hindustani music. They are dhrupad and khayaal. Dhrupad is the oldest form, fully austere when sung, and requires rigorous voice training to get perfect rhythm control. Khayaal has slower more lively compositions and is considered to be the more romantic of the two.

3. Sing the 7 basic notes in different combinations to get used to the sound and how it feels to create it.

4. Be knowledgeable about the 10 basic ragas, each with distinctive qualities. 2 identical notes sung in a different structure or temperament will create 2 completely different ragas. Some note arrangements are taboo in some ragas and it is important to remember when practicing Hindustani music exercises.

Tips & Warnings

• Sing Hindustani exercises with a relaxed, open throat as much as possible.
• Try to make no difference between the sound of your voice and its production between the low and high notes.