Indian classical music has long been revered for its intricate melodies, technical precision, and deeply spiritual essence.
Practitioners of Indian classical music claim that it is one genre of music that can help lay the foundation for excelling in all other forms of singing. Indian classical music indeed has an amazing voice training regime. It renders versatility to the voice like none other. Also, the rhythmic concept of this genre can be rarely found in any other genre.
But is it true that training in Indian classical music is the ultimate regime for vocal music? Every genre, for example, Bollywood, pop, jazz, or even Western classical has completely different singing styles and requires the voice to be attuned to them. There can’t be a one-size-fits-all theory if we go by that logic. So how true is this claim then?
Let’s explore this question in depth, examining the arguments, evidence, and perspectives surrounding the claim.
Understanding Indian Classical Music
Indian classical music is broadly divided into two systems:
- Hindustani Music – Predominantly practiced in North India, characterized by ragas (melodic frameworks) and talas (rhythmic cycles).
- Carnatic Music – Flourishing in South India, known for its intricate compositions, gamakas (ornamentations), and kritis (devotional compositions).
Both systems emphasize precision in pitch, rhythm, improvisation, and a deep understanding of musical theory, making them highly complex and disciplined art forms.
Arguments Supporting the Claim
- Rigorous Training Builds Vocal Strength
Indian classical music demands rigorous training, typically starting with the foundational exercises of Swaras (notes) and Alankars (patterns). This training enhances vocal range, control, and agility. For example, the practice of Aakar singing (sustaining notes on the vowel ‘aa’) strengthens breath control and vocal stamina. These skills are invaluable across all genres of singing.
- Mastery of Pitch and Rhythm
The emphasis on perfecting Shruti (microtones) and adhering to the Tala system gives classical singers exceptional pitch accuracy and rhythmic precision. This skill is critical for other singing forms, whether it’s belting out a pop ballad in perfect tune or navigating the syncopated rhythms of jazz.
- Improvisation and Creativity
Both Hindustani and Carnatic music are steeped in improvisation, teaching singers how to explore creative possibilities within a framework. The ability to improvise is a core skill for genres like jazz, blues, and even fusion music, which thrive on spontaneity.
- Emotional Expression
Indian classical music places a significant emphasis on Bhava (emotion) and Rasa (aesthetic experience). The nuanced understanding of emotions allows singers to bring depth and authenticity to any form of music, from opera to Bollywood playback.
- Historical Evidence
Many renowned playback singers and music icons in India, such as Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, and Kishore Kumar, were classically trained. Their ability to adapt to various genres has often been attributed to their classical foundation.
Arguments Challenging the Claim
- Genre-Specific Techniques
The varied singing styles and genres – each has unique techniques that are not necessarily covered in Indian classical music training. For instance:
- Western classical singers focus on techniques like vibrato, chest voice, and head voice, which may differ significantly from Indian classical approaches.
- Pop singers often employ a conversational tone and dynamic expression that can contrast with the more formal and structured delivery of Indian classical music.
- Cultural and Contextual Relevance
Indian classical music, while rich and versatile, is deeply rooted in Indian culture. It may not inherently prepare a singer for the stylistic nuances of genres like rap, EDM, or K-pop, which have entirely different musical aesthetics and cultural contexts.
- The Myth of Universality
The idea that Indian classical music is the “base” for all kinds of singing often arises from a cultural bias. While it can provide excellent vocal training, other classical systems, like Western classical music or traditional African music, are equally foundational for singers within their cultural frameworks.
- Prominent Non-Classical Singers
Many globally acclaimed singers have achieved greatness without formal training in Indian classical music—or any classical music at all. For example, the late Freddie Mercury, known for his operatic voice, or Billie Eilish, who excels in whispery tones, have styles far removed from Indian classical techniques.
A Balanced Perspective
While Indian classical music undoubtedly offers a strong foundation, claiming it as the only or even the ultimate base for all singing styles can be limiting. Music is a vast, diverse art form, and the skills required for excellence vary widely across genres.
What Indian Classical Music Can Offer
- Technical Mastery: A structured approach to mastering pitch, rhythm, and improvisation.
- Emotional Depth: The ability to convey complex emotions through nuanced singing.
- Vocal Flexibility: Training that enhances vocal range and stamina.
What It May Not Cover
- Genre-Specific Requirements: Techniques like growling (metal), falsetto (pop), or scat singing (jazz).
- Cultural Nuances: Understanding the stylistic essence of non-Indian genres.
The Role of Fusion and Adaptation
The modern music scene thrives on fusion and adaptation. Artists like A. R. Rahman and Shankar Mahadevan have successfully blended Indian classical elements with contemporary genres, creating a universal appeal. Similarly, classical singers like Shreya Ghoshal and Arijit Singh have seamlessly transitioned to popular music, proving the adaptability of classical training.
However, the reverse is also true. Artists trained in Western classical or other traditions have infused Indian classical influences into their work, showing that no single musical system holds a monopoly on versatility.
A Case Study: Comparing Classical and Contemporary Singing
Consider a playback singer trained in Indian classical music and another trained in Western pop. Both singers approach a Bollywood song:
- The classically trained singer brings technical precision, depth, and control but may need to “unlearn” some formalities to fit the song’s casual tone.
- The pop singer excels in emotive delivery and connecting with contemporary audiences but may need to refine technical skills for complex compositions.
Both singers bring valuable skills, emphasizing that no single training system is superior—it depends on the context and the genre’s demands.
Conclusion: Myth or Fact?
The idea that Indian classical music is the base for all kinds of singing is partly true. It provides a strong technical foundation and enriches a singer’s artistry, making it easier to explore diverse genres. However, it is not a universal solution for all singing styles. Different genres have unique requirements, and singers must embrace diverse training methods to excel in their chosen field.
In the end, music is about expression, emotion, and connection. Whether rooted in Indian classical traditions or not, what truly matters is the artist’s ability to communicate their soul through their voice.
By understanding Indian classical music as a valuable yet complementary tool, we can appreciate its role in shaping versatile, expressive, and technically adept singers while celebrating the diversity of global music traditions.
If this article motivates you to explore Indian classical music, you could explore online Carnatic music classes or online Hindustani music classes.
