This book is perhaps the first comprehensive guide to understanding all the aspects and finer nuances of Hindustani classical music. It is aimed at the serious listener, that is, someone who may not have had any formal lessons himself in this performing art, but who, nevertheless, has picked up an initial interest in listening to classical music, and is, therefore, seeking to know more about its underlying structure, system and traditions. By explaining in a straightforward and extremely readable style, the basic features of Indian music, how time and melody are structured, the main principles of r?ga delineation and development, and the various genres and styles of vocal as well as instrumental performances, the book aims to enhance the serious listener’s understanding of Hindustani music, and heighten his appreciation of this art form. This book includes a glossary of musical terms, a select discography and a select bibliography.

This book explores important features of Indian classical modes: the structure of melody, the effect of the drone, ornamentation and intonation, the function of accidentals and the perception of symmetries. These are related to a well-documented survey of the evolutionary processes that hae shaped the rags of today.