Topmusicanswers
Practicing with tempered notes shouldn't be a problem in the beginner stages. Using a harmonium can help you speed up the basics, but do keep listening to performances/recordings done without a tempered accompanying instrument.
- Why does the harmonium not work well in Indian music?
- Why was the harmonium banned?
- Is harmonium an Indian classical instrument?
- Is harmonium necessary for singing?
Why does the harmonium not work well in Indian music?
Therefore the harmonium cannot produce alankars (sound ornamentations), the trills that are so beloved in Indian classical music. A given swara in two different ragas has subtle intonational differences; musicologists claimed that the harmonium could not bring these out effectively.
Why was the harmonium banned?
During the Indian independence movement, both British and Indian scholars condemned the harmonium for embodying an unwelcome foreign musical sensibility. It was consequently banned from All-India Radio from 1940 to 1971, and still is only provisionally accepted on the national airwaves.
Is harmonium an Indian classical instrument?
The harmonium has been around for centuries and is an Indian musical instrument that is always a part of the classical musical ensemble. The harmonium is popularly used for religious ceremonies, and other festive occasions that require sombre and serene musical compositions.
Is harmonium necessary for singing?
For learning the fundamentals of music, the harmonium is absolutely essential and, in fact, it is part of many households in India. It is required in temples and gurdwaras as an accompaniment for singing bhajans and kirtans. ... No music director can compose without the ubiquitous harmonium.
