FORM IN INDIAN AND WESTERN MUSIC

Book Details:

• Author: Chetan Karnani

• Publisher: Rawat Publications

• Language: English

• Edition: 2020

• ISBN: 9788131611678

• Pages: 200

• Cover: Hardcover

• Release Date: 01 December 2020

About the Book:
This insightful book by Chetan Karnani delves into the concept of form in music, examining it within both Indian and Western classical traditions. The opening chapter introduces the idea of musical form in broad terms, setting the stage for a comparative exploration.

In the Indian context, the author presents detailed discussions on six significant forms in Hindustani vocal and instrumental music, as well as thirteen prominent forms in Karnatak (South Indian) music. Moving to the Western tradition, the book explores various vocal and instrumental forms and offers rich profiles of eleven legendary composers — from Vivaldi to Schoenberg — highlighting their contributions to musical form.

A unique feature of this work is a chapter dedicated to the history and technique of conducting in Western music, providing insights into the role of conductors. The penultimate chapter studies the hybridization of Indian and Western music, showcasing the fusion of two rich traditions. The book concludes with a tribute to Aman Ali Khan and an analysis of the Bhendibazar Gharana.

Written in a lucid and accessible style, this book is an excellent resource for music scholars, students, and enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of musical structure across cultures.

Contents:

• Form in Music

• Forms in Hindustani Music (Vocal)

• Forms in Hindustani Music (Instrumental)

• Forms in Karnatak Music

• Forms in Western Music (Vocal)

• Forms in Western Music (Instrumental)

• Composers in Western Music: With Special Reference to Form

• Western and Indian Music

• Conducting and Conductors

• Aman Ali Khan and Bhendibazar Gharana

About the Author:
Chetan Karnani, though a teacher of English Literature, has devoted much of his life to classical music. A trained Khayal singer, he studied under stalwarts like Pandit Mohan Lal Kathak and Professor Suresh Bhidwalkar. He has served as a Guest Fellow and Visiting Fellow at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla, and was a National Emeritus Fellow appointed by the UGC. Among his eleven notable works are Listening to Hindustani Music, Form in Indian Music, and Indian Writing in English.