Musical Excellence of the Modern Period

Arts or Kalas appeals to man’s intellect and creates pleasant feelings in the mind. They are often used as a mode of expression to satisfy the inner feelings of man. Fine arts such as Music, Poetry, Dance, Painting, Sculpture, Architecture etc allures one to develop our imaginations and creative thoughts and takes a person to another level of existence. Of all fine arts, Music, appeals through the medium of the ears and a good piece of music when heard, makes it enjoyable and makes the listener happy. Music can be enjoyed by all, be it the rich or poor, the human or the animal. Hence it can be considered as the language of emotions. Each nation has its own music and it also plays a major role in the moulding of a person’s character. Listening to good music purifies and cleanses our heart and learning of music develops the powers of concentration. Music is a Kala (Art), as well as a Sastra (Science). Most of the great philosophers, scientists, mathematicians and thinkers have spoken largely on music as something which can stir the soul. The Greek Philosopher Plato speaks about music: “Music gives a soul to the Universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything”. This world devoid, of music, will be a dull and drab place and so many famous thinkers and leaders have given due importance to music through which a person can attain mental peace. Music is of two types – Melody1 and Harmony2. Melody means producing one note at a time, whereas Harmony meant sounding of three or more notes simultaneously. Indian music follows melody whereas Western music follows harmony. Indian music is one of the most developed of all musical systems in the world and its origin can be traced back to the Vedic period. Hence Indian music is enriched by legendary musicians, and Instrumentalists, in both Carnatic music and Hindustani music systems. Hence it is essential to know about both its theoretical as well as the practical aspects to have a good grasp of music. The diverse works on music are evidences which speak about the music which existed in the earlier centuries. The remarkable genius of the skilled Vaggeyakaras3 of Carnatic music, was another turning point in the development of music through the different centuries.