About the Book

An Introduction to Hindustani Classical Music

An Introduction to Hindustani Classical Music: A Guidebook for Beginners is Vijay Singha's comprehensive guide to savour and appreciate classical music. Written in a simple and easy-to-comprehend style, this book delves into the understanding of raga sangeet, semi-classical and fusion music, raga sangeet in Hindi films, as well as the future of classical music in India.
A short, but rich in detail account of the essential elements of the great Hindustani music along with mentions of its history and evolution into the present form. Very educative and provides some more reference and standing to a beginner 'rasik' who is in the initial stages of appreciating Hindustani music ( particularly Khayal gayaki ). Though can be informative for a seasoned music lover too for its historical content. All aspects, including semi classical forms like Thumri and Ghazals have been discussed in detail along with the more 'classical' Khayal gaayaki, instrumental bandishes and the importance of taals. And in spite of such heavy material it was a breezy read and gave a list of 'recommended albums' at the end along with complete progression stages! What more can one ask for ? :) Recommended for Uninitiated and seasoned rasiks alike.