#sitar music

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Krishna, why You are speaking to me?" Why specifically was Bhagavad-gita spoken to Arjuna? Krishna's reply is, bhakto 'si: "The only qualification is that you are My devotee. That's all."

Raga Gara ~Pandit Ravi Shankar ~Sitar

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Performance by Indrajit Banerjee & Friends

Recording, Mixing, and Mastering by Tiffany Wines

[mannymuc]

Sitar Magic with Ravi and George

George Harrison and his master Ravi Shankar in the 1960s

(A collage of two photos and some background elements)

[sitarists]

SANJEEV KORTI - SITARIST IN BANGALORE

Shri Sanjeev Korti, a fine sitarist of the newer generation. With more than twenty three years of rigorous sitar training from Ustad Shafique Khan, hails from Gwalior Gharana who is a grandson of Sitar Ratna Rahamat Khan. Shri Sanjeev Korti started to train as a vocalist but after listening sitar maestro Ustad Shahid Parvez, ignited a sudden and lasting passion for the sitar. Plays sitar with both gayaki ang and tantra kari ang. Performed at many prestigious concerts which are aired in AIR and Doordarshan also composed good music exhibiting artistic talent and command over the sitar instrument. Accompanied many light music and kathak dance programme. Shree Sanjeev Korti has completed Sangeet Vidwath and Sangeet Visharad in Sitar.

Shri Sanjeev Korti is a founder of Swartarang Sangeet Academy(R) Bangalore, under his guidence many students are learning sitar in Bangalore and around the world using online classes facility.

Shri Sanjeev Korti has taught Sitar in highly reputed institutes like Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bengaluru. He is a visiting lecturer at Azim Premji University, Bengaluru. Shri Sanjeev Korti has also worked as Sitar Teacher in Indus International School, TISB Bengaluru and Sarala Birla Academy Bengaluru.

[wyeijn]

MAY 10, 2022

[thepinklotusacademia]

Different Types of Sitar Techniques and Gharanas

The sitar is a mesmerizing and intricate musical instrument that has captivated audiences for centuries. Its distinctive sound and unique playing techniques make it an integral part of Indian classical music. In this article, we will explore the different types of sitar techniques and gharanas, shedding light on the rich heritage and diversity of this beautiful instrument.

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Sitar: A Brief Overview

Basic Sitar Techniques

Proper Sitting Posture and Hand Positioning

Picking and Plucking Techniques

Bending and Sliding Techniques

Prominent Sitar Gharanas

Maihar Gharana

Senia Gharana

Imdadkhani Gharana

Etawah Gharana

Jaipur Gharana

Notable Sitar Players and their Techniques

Ravi Shankar

Vilayat Khan

Nikhil Banerjee

Shahid Parvez

Fusion of Sitar Techniques in Contemporary Music

Conclusion

FAQs

1. Introduction

The sitar, with its distinct resonance and complex structure, is an iconic instrument in Indian classical music. It is known for its resonating strings, gourd resonator, and its long neck with movable frets. Sitar playing involves a combination of plucking, picking, sliding, and bending techniques, all of which contribute to its unique sound.

2. The Sitar: A Brief Overview

The sitar originated in the Indian subcontinent during the medieval period and has evolved over time. It is a stringed instrument made of seasoned wood, featuring a large resonating gourd and a hollow neck. The strings are plucked with a metallic plectrum known as a "mizrab" or "mezrab," creating melodious and enchanting notes.

3. Basic Sitar Techniques

3.1 Proper Sitting Posture and Hand Positioning

To play the sitar effectively, it is crucial to maintain the correct sitting posture. Sit cross-legged on the floor with the sitar resting on your lap. The left hand is responsible for pressing the strings on the frets, while the right hand plucks the strings near the bridge.

3.2 Picking and Plucking Techniques

The sitar employs a combination of picking and plucking techniques. The index finger of the right hand is used to pluck the melody strings, while the middle finger plucks the drone strings. The mizrab or mezrab is worn on the index finger of the right hand to facilitate smooth plucking.

3.3 Bending and Sliding Techniques

Bending and sliding are crucial techniques in sitar playing that allow the artist to achieve intricate and emotive melodies. Bending involves applying pressure to the string with the left hand and gradually changing the pitch. Sliding, on the other hand, involves smoothly transitioning from one note to another by gliding the finger along the string.

4. Prominent Sitar Gharanas

Sitar playing is influenced by various gharanas, which are essentially schools or traditions of music. Each gharana has its unique style, emphasizing specific techniques and ornamentations. Here are some notable gharanas:

4.1 Maihar Gharana

The Maihar Gharana, founded by Ustad Allauddin Khan, is renowned for its blend of dhrupad and khayal styles. It emphasizes meend (sliding), gamak (ornamentation), and intricate taans (fast melodic phrases).

4.2 Senia Gharana

The Senia Gharana traces its roots back to the legendary musician Mian Tansen. It focuses on meend, gamak, and meendkari techniques, and is characterized by its soulful and introspective approach to sitar playing.

4.3 Imdadkhani Gharana

The Imdadkhani Gharana, founded by Ustad Imdad Khan, is known for its expressive and intricate playing style. It emphasizes the use of intricate taans, rhythmic patterns, and fast meend techniques.

4.4 Etawah Gharana

The Etawah Gharana, established by Ustad Imdad Khan's son, Ustad Enayat Khan, is characterized by its emphasis on technical brilliance and complex rhythmic patterns. It incorporates elements of vocal music into sitar playing.

4.5 Jaipur Gharana

The Jaipur Gharana is famous for its vibrant and energetic style. It emphasizes intricate and fast taans, striking rhythmic patterns, and dynamic improvisation techniques.

5. Notable Sitar Players and their Techniques

Several virtuosos have contributed significantly to sitar playing, each with their distinctive style and techniques. Here are a few notable sitar players:

5.1 Ravi Shankar

The legendary Ravi Shankar was instrumental in popularizing the sitar worldwide. His unique playing style showcased brilliant taans, intricate meend techniques, and powerful emotional expressions.

5.2 Vilayat Khan

Vilayat Khan, a maestro of the sitar, was known for his innovative techniques and soulful renditions. His playing style encompassed complex rhythmic patterns, mesmerizing meend, and captivating taans.

5.3 Nikhil Banerjee

Nikhil Banerjee's playing style was characterized by his exceptional finger technique and soul-stirring melodic improvisations. His mastery over meend, taans, and intricate rhythmic patterns made him a revered sitarist.

5.4 Shahid Parvez

Shahid Parvez is renowned for his mesmerizing stage presence and dynamic playing style. His ability to effortlessly blend traditional techniques with contemporary influences has earned him international acclaim.

6. Fusion of Sitar Techniques in Contemporary Music

The sitar's versatility has enabled its fusion with various genres of music, including jazz, rock, and world music. Many contemporary musicians incorporate sitar techniques into their compositions, creating a unique and captivating fusion of sounds.

7. Conclusion

The sitar is a magnificent instrument that has stood the test of time, captivating listeners with its enchanting melodies. Its diverse techniques and gharanas reflect the rich heritage and evolving nature of Indian classical music. Whether played in traditional or contemporary styles, the sitar continues to evoke emotions and transport audiences to a world of profound musical beauty.

Instagram:  @thepinklotusacademia

Facebook: @thepinklotusacademia

Faculty: Soumitra Thakur

Enquire Now: Click Here

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Poster for Sitar concert at Minto Island Growers in Salem, OR.

[joytri]

If it was a piece of paper, I would tear it. If it was a bottle, I would break it, if it was a wall, I would tear it down - But it is my heart.

Mahmoud Darwish

[nora-yoko]

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Pandit Ashim Chowdhury | Raag Miyan Ki Malhar | Monsoon Masterpiece

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fav genre of photo fr (george harrison with sitar).

[kemetic-dreams]

Spiritual jazz (or astral jazz)[1] is a sub-genre of jazz that originated in the United States during the 1960s. The genre is hard to characterize musically but draws from free, avant-garde and modal jazz and thematically focuses on transcendence and spirituality. John Coltrane's 1965 album A Love Supreme is considered landmark in the genre.

Origins

Pharoah Sanders in 1981.

Critics usually associate spiritual jazz with the 1960s but the beginnings of the genre can be traced to the 1940s and 1950s in works such as Black, Brown and Beige by Duke Ellington, Zodiac Suite by Mary Lou Williams, and Jazz at the Vespers by George Lewis.

During the 1960s in the United States, the civil rights movement was occurring, causing societal change and political movements. As a result, African-American people gained more freedom to celebrate their culture and to express themselves religiously. This led to a desire to push the conventions of jazz, with some artists choosing to search for transcendence and spirituality in their music.

John Coltrane's 1965 album A Love Supreme is generally considered the genesis of spiritual jazz though Coltrane can be heard developing the sound on the song "Spiritual" recorded four years earlier. Treblezine wrote "Spiritual jazz begins, essentially, with John Coltrane," while Pitchfork wrote "This musical exploration [of spirituality] was epitomized by tenor saxophonist John Coltrane". A Love Supreme and other works by John Coltrane inspired other jazz musicians to create music searching for transcendence. For example, Pharoah Sanders and Don Cherry were considered to have taken inspiration from Coltrane's spiritual works.

After John Coltrane's death in 1967, his wife Alice Coltrane and Sanders—both who had previously played with Coltrane—were some of the first to continue the sound of the genre. Coltrane's 1971 album Journey in Satchidananda combined spiritual jazz with influences from Hindustani classical music, after her journey into spirituality with help from Swami Satchidananda. Journey in Satchidananda used ragas, harps, sitars, and ouds to achieve its sound. Pharoah Sanders took inspiration from Arabic, Indian, and Afro-Cuban music to create early spiritual jazz albums, including Tauhid (1967) and Karma

[thepinklotusacademia]

History of Development of Sitar in Maihar Gharana

Introduction

The history of the development of the sitar in the Maihar Gharana is a fascinating journey that spans several centuries. The Maihar Gharana, one of the most renowned schools of Hindustani classical music, has played a pivotal role in shaping the evolution of the sitar. This article delves into the rich heritage and significant contributions of the Maihar Gharana to the development of this iconic musical instrument.

The Birth of the Sitar

The sitar traces its origins back to ancient India, with its roots in the veena, an instrument that dates back to at least 1000 BCE. Over time, the sitar evolved from the veena, undergoing various modifications and enhancements to achieve its distinct sound and characteristics.

Evolution of the Sitar in Maihar Gharana

Guru Shishya Parampara: The Teacher-Student Tradition

The Maihar Gharana has a strong lineage of guru-shishya parampara, where knowledge and expertise are passed down from the guru (teacher) to the shishya (student). This tradition has played a pivotal role in the development of the sitar in the Maihar Gharana, ensuring the preservation of the rich musical heritage.

Ustad Allauddin Khan: The Visionary

Ustad Allauddin Khan, a legendary musician and the founder of the Maihar Gharana, made significant contributions to the development of the sitar. He was a visionary who brought together elements from various musical traditions and incorporated them into the sitar, creating a unique and mesmerizing style.

Innovations and Techniques

Under the guidance of Ustad Allauddin Khan and subsequent masters of the Maihar Gharana, the sitar underwent several innovations and refinements. These included changes in the design, stringing patterns, and playing techniques, all aimed at enhancing the instrument's tonal quality and expressiveness.

Integration of Vocal Techniques

The musicians of the Maihar Gharana emphasized the integration of vocal techniques into sitar playing. This approach allowed the sitar to mimic the nuances of human voice, creating a captivating melodic experience. The integration of vocal techniques added depth and emotive power to the instrument's repertoire.

Historical Significance of the Maihar Gharana

Influence on Indian Classical Music

The Maihar Gharana has had a profound influence on the landscape of Indian classical music. Its musicians, including sitar virtuosos such as Ravi Shankar and Nikhil Banerjee, have not only pushed the boundaries of the sitar's possibilities but also contributed to the wider acceptance and popularity of Hindustani classical music worldwide.

Preservation of Tradition

The Maihar Gharana has been instrumental in preserving the rich tradition of Indian classical music. Its musicians have dedicated themselves to the rigorous training and practice required to master the sitar and pass on their knowledge to future generations. This commitment to preserving tradition ensures that the art form continues to thrive.

Cultural Legacy

The development of the sitar in the Maihar Gharana has become an integral part of India's cultural legacy. The melodic and rhythmic intricacies of the sitar have become synonymous with Indian classical music, captivating audiences across the globe and representing the rich cultural heritage of the country.

FAQs

Q: What is the significance of the Maihar Gharana in the development of the sitar?

The Maihar Gharana holds immense significance in the development of the sitar. Its musicians, including Ustad Allauddin Khan, pioneered innovative techniques and incorporated vocal elements into sitar playing, shaping the instrument's evolution and contributing to its unique sound.

Q: Who are some notable sitar players from the Maihar Gharana?

The Maihar Gharana has produced several notable sitar players. Prominent among them are Ustad Ravi Shankar, who gained worldwide acclaim for his virtuosity, and Nikhil Banerjee, known for his soulful and emotive renditions.

Q: How does the Maihar Gharana differ from other schools of sitar playing?

The Maihar Gharana stands out for its emphasis on the integration of vocal techniques, which sets it apart from other schools of sitar playing. This approach adds a distinct melodic and expressive quality to the sitar's repertoire.

Q: What are some key innovations introduced by the Maihar Gharana?

The Maihar Gharana introduced several key innovations to the sitar, including modifications in the instrument's design, stringing patterns, and playing techniques. These innovations aimed to enhance the sitar's tonal quality and expand its expressive capabilities.

Q: How has the Maihar Gharana influenced Indian classical music?

The Maihar Gharana has had a profound influence on Indian classical music. Its musicians have not only contributed to the development of the sitar but also pushed the boundaries of Hindustani classical music as a whole, fostering innovation while preserving the rich traditions of the art form.

Q: What is the legacy of the Maihar Gharana in contemporary music?

The legacy of the Maihar Gharana in contemporary music is significant. Its influence can be seen in the works of sitar players and composers who have been inspired by the Maihar Gharana's approach. The contributions of the gharana continue to shape the landscape of Indian classical and fusion music today.

Conclusion

The history of the development of the sitar in the Maihar Gharana is a testament to the rich heritage and innovation within Indian classical music. The gharana's emphasis on preserving tradition while embracing innovation has contributed to the evolution of the sitar and its enduring significance in the world of music. As we celebrate the history and contributions of the Maihar Gharana, we acknowledge its profound impact on the development of the sitar and Indian classical music as a whole.

Instagram:  @thepinklotusacademia

Facebook: @thepinklotusacademia

Faculty: Soumitra Thakur

Enquire Now: Click Here

[molkolsdal]

sitar

long-necked stringed Indian musical instrument, 1845, from Hindi sitar, from Persian sitar "three-stringed," from si "three" + tar "string"

zither

stringed musical instrument, 1850, from German Zither, from Old High German zitara, from Latin cithara, from Greek kithara

kithara

an ancient Greek stringed instrument, which could be considered a forerunner of the guitar, according to Beekes, acquired from Pre-Greek. Probably ultimately derived from or at least related to Proto-Hurro-Urartian *kinnar (“lyre, harp”)

guitar

from Spanish guitarra, from Arabic قِيثَارَة‎ (qīṯāra), from Latin cithara, from Ancient Greek κιθάρα (kithára)

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Whimsy and Deadly Amusements Collection:

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Ravi Shankar and his daughter Anoushka Shankar