Dear Jey,
I have observed many of my friends listening to music with immense depth and absorption. Inspired by this, I too developed an interest in listening to music; I began purchasing records and playing them. However, I found myself able to focus on only certain segments. Most of the time, I would evoke a certain “mood,” but I did not experience what I would describe as a true musical experience.
Deep emotion is what I seek in music. I began to feel that these specific emotions were absent in Carnatic music. Furthermore, it seemed to me that in Carnatic music, the performers tend to distort these very emotions by elongating, shortening, and endlessly repeating phrases. Singing a single word repeatedly only tests my patience. Similarly, I find myself unable to engage with musical passages that consist solely of vocalizations or sounds devoid of lyrics.
Would it be possible to cultivate the necessary mindset to appreciate this music through the introductory classes you conduct? Will I find explanations for these specific questions there?
Aruvi Balakrishnan
Dear Balakrishnan,
The fundamental prerequisite for listening to any form of music is establishing a connection with it. This is precisely what is meant by “training the ear.” It is this very introduction that we facilitate in our classes. In addition, we provide certain foundational insights.
We typically enjoy film songs primarily through the visual imagery and narrative contexts associated with their lyrics. It is these specific emotions—tied to the story—that we experience. Traditional classical music, however, lacks such a narrative context. Yet, an introductory class serves to provide that context in its entirety. In other words, the classes teach you how to frame traditional classical compositions within a context appropriate to that genre—specifically, as a devotional or deeply emotive musical experience.
Secondly, the manner in which emotions are expressed in Carnatic music differs somewhat. In film music, an emotion often manifests as a sudden surge or a fleeting bubble—it surfaces, expresses itself, and then dissipates quickly. In traditional classical music, however, that emotion is sustained and carried forward over an extended period. A song such as ‘Nee Thayaaradaa?’ (Are You Ready?) posits a specific emotion—the plea: “Will you not show mercy?” However, the kirtana reiterates itself—singing the same passages over and over—precisely to sustain that specific emotion for the duration of an hour. Through the medium of wordless sounds, it prolongs the very same emotion that was originally conveyed through its lyrics.
Once your mind becomes attuned to this process, you will be able to truly perceive it. All that is required is a proper introduction and, initially, the patience to cultivate the habit of listening attentively. Once that habit is established, you can join the music. To enter into the music is akin to stepping into a new realm—a world inhabited by deities.
— Jeyamohan
