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B-A-GENERAL in Vocal Music at Calcutta Girls' College
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Vocal Music at Calcutta Girls' College Kolkata?
This Vocal Music program at Calcutta Girls'''' College focuses on a comprehensive study of Hindustani Classical Vocal Music, following the University of Calcutta''''s CBCS curriculum. It delves into the theoretical foundations, historical evolution, and practical application of various ragas and talas. This specialization is highly relevant in India''''s vibrant music industry, encompassing classical performances, film, television, and teaching, emphasizing cultural preservation and artistic expression.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for young women who have a passion for Indian classical music and a foundational aptitude for vocal performance. It caters to fresh graduates from higher secondary education eager to pursue a career or higher studies in music, as well as individuals keen on understanding the rich heritage of Hindustani classical tradition. No prior formal music education is strictly mandated for B.A. General, but a keen interest is essential.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including professional classical vocalist, music teacher, music therapist, music critic, or archivist. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2.5 LPA to 5 LPA, with experienced performers and educators earning significantly more. Growth trajectories involve establishing performance careers, opening music schools, or contributing to cultural institutions, often aligning with national music certifications.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Basic Raga and Tala Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate consistent daily practice to vocal exercises (alankars), understanding the concept of Swara, Saptak, and accurately rendering initial ragas like Yaman and Bhupali. Utilize online tutorials and listen to classical maestros to internalize the nuances.
Tools & Resources
Riyaz app, YouTube channels of classical gurus, Listening to recordings of Ustad Rashid Khan, Pandit Jasraj
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for any vocal career, enabling accurate pitch, rhythm, and clear expression, which are non-negotiable for professional performance and teaching.
Active Participation in College Cultural Events- (Semester 1-2)
Engage in college annual functions, inter-departmental cultural events, and music clubs. Perform solo or in groups to gain stage experience, overcome stage fright, and receive peer and faculty feedback.
Tools & Resources
College Music Club, Department Cultural Committee, Local classical music events
Career Connection
Develops confidence, stage presence, and networking skills essential for a performing artist, and helps build a portfolio of live performances.
Understand Music Theory and History- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond practical lessons, deeply study the theoretical aspects like Thaat system, Raga classification, and the ancient history of Indian music. Create concept maps and summaries to connect theory with practical application.
Tools & Resources
University syllabus texts, Books on Indian Music History (e.g., O.P. Sharma, V.N. Bhatkhande), Online music encyclopedias
Career Connection
A strong theoretical understanding enhances performance depth and opens avenues for careers in music research, criticism, and academic teaching.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Advanced Ragas and Talas- (Semester 3-5)
Begin exploring more complex ragas and talas introduced in Semesters 3 and 4. Focus on intricate taans, sargams, and different compositional forms like Dhrupad and Khayal, practicing improvisation within the Raga''''s framework.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated guru/mentor, Advanced music notation software (e.g., SwarYantra), Recordings of advanced vocalists
Career Connection
Mastery of advanced repertoire allows for versatility in performance, making you eligible for higher-level performance opportunities and specialized teaching roles.
Attend Workshops and Masterclasses- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to attend workshops, masterclasses, and music festivals organized in Kolkata. Interact with established artists and scholars to gain insights into performance techniques, career management, and industry trends.
Tools & Resources
Sangeet Natak Akademi events, Dover Lane Music Conference, ITC Sangeet Research Academy workshops
Career Connection
Crucial for professional development, networking with industry veterans, and understanding the practicalities of a music career beyond academics.
Collaborate with Musicians and Ensembles- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to collaborate with instrumentalists, other vocalists, or form small musical groups. This fosters teamwork, improves listening skills, and prepares for ensemble performances common in the industry.
Tools & Resources
University/College music societies, Local music groups/ensembles, Social media groups for musicians
Career Connection
Builds a professional network, develops collaborative skills, and creates performance opportunities that are highly valued in the Indian music scene.
Advanced Stage
Cultivate Unique Performance Style and Repertoire- (Semester 6)
As DSEs focus on advanced forms like Ghazal and Folk, work on developing a distinct vocal style while respecting traditional norms. Build a varied repertoire that showcases both classical purity and expressive versatility, ready for public performance.
Tools & Resources
Personalized vocal coaching, Recording equipment for self-assessment, Extensive listening to diverse genres
Career Connection
A unique style and broad repertoire are key to standing out as a professional artist, securing performance contracts, and attracting students for teaching.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Online Presence- (Semester 6)
Create a professional portfolio including high-quality audio/video recordings of performances, a bio, and testimonials. Establish a strong online presence through social media, a personal website, or artist platforms.
Tools & Resources
Professional recording studio, Website builders (e.g., Wix, WordPress), Social media platforms (YouTube, Instagram, Facebook)
Career Connection
Essential for self-promotion, attracting event organizers, booking gigs, and reaching a wider audience, crucial for any independent artist or performer.
Prepare for Higher Studies or Professional Placements- (Semester 6)
For those aspiring for further academic pursuits, research Master''''s programs in Music or related fields. For professional roles, prepare demo reels, network with cultural organizations, and apply for teaching positions in schools or music academies.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling cell, University admission portals, Job portals for arts/education
Career Connection
Directly links academic success to career opportunities, whether in advanced research, teaching, or as a professional performing artist.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed H.S. (10+2) or its equivalent examination from any recognized Board.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 140 (for the entire B.A. General Degree, Vocal Music Discipline Specific Core and Elective components total 36 credits) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-VM-A | General Study of Hindustani Classical Music and Practice of Ragas - I | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 6 | Nada, Shruti, Swara, Saptak, Thaat, Raga, Tala definitions, Types of Swara, Divisions of Saptak, Raga Lakshanas: Yaman, Bhupali, Bilawal, Talas: Teentala, Dadra (with Taali-Khali), Basic Alankars and Raga practice |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-VM-B | General Study of Hindustani Classical Music and Practice of Ragas - II | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 6 | Time Theory of Ragas, Classification of Ragas, Study of Jati, Raga Lakshanas: Kedar, Bageshri, Khamaj, Talas: Ektaal, Jhaptaal (with Taali-Khali), Basic Palta and Raga practice |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-VM-C | General Study of Hindustani Classical Music and Practice of Ragas - III | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 6 | History of Indian Music (Ancient Period - Vedic to Medieval), Gharanas of Hindustani Music, Raga Lakshanas: Multani, Komal Rishabh Asavari, Malkauns, Talas: Rupak, Chartaal (Teental with Taali-Khali), Raga practice and compositions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-VM-D | General Study of Hindustani Classical Music and Practice of Ragas - IV | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 6 | History of Indian Music (Medieval to Modern Period), Contribution of prominent musicians, Forms of Indian Classical Music: Dhrupad, Khayal, Thumri, Bhajan, Raga Lakshanas: Puria Dhanashri, Bhairavi, Desh, Talas: Dhamar, Ada Chartaal (with Taali-Khali) |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-VM-A | Discipline Specific Elective - Vocal Music - I | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 6 | Critical Study of Ragas, Advanced Raga Lakshanas: Todi, Darbari Kanhra, Forms: Tarana, Sadra, Hori, Introduction to Musical Instruments, Vocal compositions in specified forms |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-VM-B | Discipline Specific Elective - Vocal Music - II | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 6 | Aesthetics of Indian Music, Role of Music in Society, Music Criticism, Modern Trends in Indian Music, Raga Lakshanas: Marwa, Shankara, Forms: Ghazal, Qawwali, Folk Music, Vocal compositions in specified forms and folk songs |
