Indian Classical Music Theory 101
To master the harmonium, it helps to understand the underlying theoretical framework of Indian classical music (Hindustani system). This article introduces the concepts of Thaats, Raags, and Talas.
1. The Thaat System
A Thaat is a parent scale from which raags are derived. In Hindustani music, there are **10 primary Thaats**:
- Bilawal: All natural notes (matches Western C Major).
- Kalyan: Uses Tivra Ma.
- Bhairav: Uses Komal Re and Komal Dha.
- Kafi: Uses Komal Ga and Komal Ni.
- Asavari: Uses Komal Ga, Dha, and Ni.
- Bhairavi: Uses Komal Re, Ga, Dha, and Ni.
- Khaman: Uses Komal Ni.
- Todi: Uses Komal Re, Ga, Dha, and Tivra Ma.
- Purvi: Uses Komal Re, Dha, and Tivra Ma.
- Marwa: Uses Komal Re and Tivra Ma.
2. Raags vs. Scales
While a scale is a simple set of notes, a **Raag** is a melodic framework. It has rules: ascending pathways (Aaroh), descending pathways (Avaroh), key notes (Vadi/Samvadi), and specific emotional moods.