The Music of India

Indian music despite its limited popularity is not a spent force, but has still a great role to play in the firmament of world music is the siren song of this book, The Music of India by Atiya Begum Fyzee-Rahamin. Its hoary origin, gradual evolution, the impact of foreign influences, the two principal schools-the Karnataka (southern) and the Hindustani (northern)-and the glorious periods, when some of its illustrious exponents enriched it with their immortal compositions and elevated it to dizzy heights of perfection are brought into sharp focus. The mysteries and misconceptions engulfing it are dispelled by an elucidation of four important parts (angas): Sur Adhaya (Law of Tones), Tala Adhaya (Law of Rhythm), Ast Adhaya (Law of Musical Instruments) and Raga Adhaya (Law of Tunes). Its connexion with astrology and the exploits of some of its legendary masters are narrated to reveal the power of the Ragas and Raginis to transport the listeners to that haven of enchantment where nature and time stand still. The illustrations serve as foils to the text. All those interested in Indian Music will find this book an excellent introduction for further study.