

BA in Music at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College


Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Music at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College Mayurbhanj?
This Music program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of Indian classical music, Odissi music, folk traditions, and an introduction to Western and global music. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical performance, the curriculum also delves into musicology, aesthetics, and modern music technology. India, with its rich and diverse musical heritage, offers a vibrant ecosystem for musicians, making a well-rounded program highly relevant for aspiring artists, educators, and cultural practitioners.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals with a strong passion for music, including aspiring classical vocalists or instrumentalists, future music educators, sound engineers, cultural event managers, and those interested in music research or therapy. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into the diverse Indian music and entertainment industry, as well as individuals looking to deepen their understanding and practical skills in various musical forms.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue various India-specific career paths, including professional performing artists, music teachers in schools and academies, cultural event organizers, content creators for media, or even roles in music therapy and research. Entry-level salaries in the Indian music industry can range from INR 2-4 LPA, with experienced professionals and established artists earning significantly more, potentially INR 5-10+ LPA or higher based on skill, network, and visibility. The program also prepares students for further academic pursuits like Master''''s degrees in Music.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Basic Theory and Practice- (undefined)
Dedicate regular hours to understanding foundational music theory (swaras, talas, ragas, basic Western notation) and consistent practice of your chosen vocal or instrumental form. Focus on building strong muscle memory and ear training in Semesters 1 and 2.
Tools & Resources
Tanpura/Shruti box, Metronome, Basic music theory textbooks, Classical music recordings, College music practice rooms
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for advanced learning and professional performance, enabling faster skill acquisition and confidence in later stages of your musical journey.
Engage Actively in College Cultural Clubs- (undefined)
Join the college''''s cultural or music club. Actively participate in inter-departmental cultural events, annual day performances, and local community programs. This helps in overcoming stage fright and gaining early performance experience.
Tools & Resources
College music club, Local cultural associations, Inter-college cultural fests
Career Connection
Early stage exposure builds confidence, hones performance skills, and provides networking opportunities with peers and local artists, essential for a performing career.
Explore Odishan Music Heritage- (undefined)
Beyond classroom learning, immerse yourself in the rich folk and classical music traditions of Odisha. Attend local Odissi music concerts, folk performances, and workshops to understand the cultural context and regional nuances.
Tools & Resources
Local cultural centers, Odissi music concerts, Documentaries on Odishan folk music, Department faculty guidance
Career Connection
Understanding regional music not only enriches your knowledge but also opens avenues in specialized Odissi music performance, research, and cultural preservation, which are highly valued in India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Compositional and Improvisational Skills- (undefined)
In Semesters 3-5, actively apply theoretical knowledge to create original musical pieces and practice improvisation within different Ragas and Talas. Experiment with blending Indian and Western musical elements.
Tools & Resources
Basic music notation software (e.g., MuseScore), Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) for basic composition, Mentorship from senior students/faculty
Career Connection
Composition and improvisation are critical skills for professional musicians, fostering creativity and enabling roles as composers, arrangers, and versatile performers in the Indian film and independent music scene.
Seek Practical Exposure and Internships- (undefined)
Look for short-term internships or apprenticeship opportunities with local music teachers, recording studios, event management companies, or folk artists. This provides hands-on experience in areas like music production, event coordination, or teaching assistance.
Tools & Resources
Department placement cell (if any), Local music schools/studios, Cultural event organizers, Networking with faculty and alumni
Career Connection
Practical exposure bridges the gap between academic learning and industry demands, building a professional network and making you industry-ready for roles like studio assistants, music tutors, or event coordinators.
Participate in Music Production Workshops- (undefined)
Leverage the ''''Music Production and Technology'''' course by attending external workshops on sound engineering, recording, mixing, and mastering. Familiarize yourself with industry-standard software and equipment.
Tools & Resources
Online tutorials (YouTube, Coursera), Local sound engineering institutes, Music technology clubs, DAWs like GarageBand, FL Studio, Logic Pro
Career Connection
Proficiency in music technology is a highly sought-after skill in today''''s music industry, opening doors to careers in sound engineering, music arrangement, jingle production, and digital music content creation.
Advanced Stage
Build a Professional Performance/Composition Portfolio- (undefined)
By Semesters 5-6, compile a portfolio of your best performances, original compositions, or music arrangements. Record high-quality audio/video samples and create a professional online presence (e.g., YouTube channel, personal website).
Tools & Resources
Professional recording equipment (rented/borrowed), Video editing software, Social media platforms, Personal website builders
Career Connection
A strong portfolio is your resume in the music industry, showcasing your talent and versatility to potential employers, collaborators, and clients for performing, teaching, or composing roles.
Focus on Music Pedagogy and Teaching Skills- (undefined)
Engage in teaching internships or volunteer as a music tutor to develop pedagogical skills. Understand different teaching methodologies and curriculum development, which is crucial for a career in music education.
Tools & Resources
Local schools/music academies, Mentorship from experienced music teachers, Online teaching resources
Career Connection
Strong pedagogical skills are essential for becoming a successful music educator in schools, colleges, or private academies, a stable and rewarding career path in India.
Network Extensively and Seek Mentorship- (undefined)
Attend music conferences, festivals, and workshops. Connect with established musicians, musicologists, and industry professionals. Seek mentorship from faculty or senior artists to guide your career planning and artistic development.
Tools & Resources
Music festivals (e.g., Dover Lane Music Conference, ITC Sangeet Sammelan), Professional social media platforms (LinkedIn), Alumni network
Career Connection
Networking is vital for discovering opportunities, collaborations, and gaining insights into career progression, helping you secure placements and build a sustainable career in the competitive Indian music landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per Utkal University and college regulations for BA programs, typically 10+2 pass from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Typically 20% for theory papers (Mid-Semester/Internal Assessment), External: Typically 80% for theory papers (End-Semester Examination); practicals and 2-credit courses evaluated separately (e.g., 50 marks End Sem)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its Conservation, Environmental Pollution |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - Choice Based | Generic Elective | 6 | Subjects offered by other departments, Introduction to Arts/Social Sciences disciplines, Foundation of Humanities, Interdisciplinary concepts, Critical thinking skills |
| CC-1 (Music) | Chhanda and Tala - Theory I | Core Course | 6 | Tala, Matra, Laya, Avarta, Sam, Khali, Tali, Bols and their recitation, Different forms of Talas, Application in vocal and instrumental music |
| CC-2 (Music) | Swara and Raga - Theory I | Core Course | 6 | Swaras and their classification, Saptak and Octave concepts, That and Raga system, Alankar (ornamentation), Nada and Shruti concepts |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-2 | MIL/English Communication (Choice Based) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Language proficiency and grammar, Reading comprehension, Writing skills (essays, reports), Oral communication, Cultural and literary aspects of chosen MIL |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - Choice Based | Generic Elective | 6 | Subjects offered by other departments, Introduction to Arts/Social Sciences disciplines, Foundation of Humanities, Interdisciplinary concepts, Critical thinking skills |
| CC-3 (Music) | Indian Classical Music - Theory | Core Course | 6 | Origin and Evolution of Indian Music, Ancient, Medieval, and Modern periods of Indian Music, Concept of Gharana system, Major forms of Indian Classical Music, Contribution of eminent musicians and theorists |
| CC-4 (Music) | Western Music - Theory | Core Course | 6 | Western Scales and Modes, Basic Harmony and Chord Progressions, Musical Form and Structure, Western Musical Notation, Introduction to Orchestration |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEC-1 | Basic Computer Application | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Fundamentals of Computers, Operating System Concepts, Introduction to MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Internet and Web Browsing, Basic Data Management |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - Choice Based | Generic Elective | 6 | Subjects offered by other departments, Introduction to Arts/Social Sciences disciplines, Foundation of Humanities, Interdisciplinary concepts, Critical thinking skills |
| CC-5 (Music) | Hindustani Vocal/Instrumental | Core Course | 6 | Practice of Hindustani classical Ragas, Vocal techniques (e.g., Khayal, Tarana), Instrumental techniques (e.g., Sitar, Violin), Performance practice and improvisation, Understanding of Bandishes and Gats |
| CC-6 (Music) | Odissi Music/Tabla/Pakhawaj | Core Course | 6 | Forms and styles of Odissi Music, Tala system in Odissi music, Tabla/Pakhawaj techniques and repertoire, Accompaniment skills, Rhythmic patterns and compositions |
| CC-7 (Music) | Musicology and Aesthetics | Core Course | 6 | Definition and scope of Musicology, Aesthetics of music in Indian and Western traditions, Relationship between music and society, Philosophical approaches to music, Critical analysis of musical works |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEC-2 | Music Production and Technology | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Introduction to Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), Basic Recording Techniques, Audio Editing and Mixing Principles, Understanding Sound Engineering Basics, MIDI and Synthesizers |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - Choice Based | Generic Elective | 6 | Subjects offered by other departments, Introduction to Arts/Social Sciences disciplines, Foundation of Humanities, Interdisciplinary concepts, Critical thinking skills |
| CC-8 (Music) | Composition and Improvisation | Core Course | 6 | Principles of Musical Composition, Techniques of Improvisation in Indian Music, Creative Music Making and Arrangement, Formulating original musical ideas, Structuring and developing musical pieces |
| CC-9 (Music) | Folk and Tribal Music of Odisha | Core Course | 6 | Introduction to Odishan Folk Music Forms, Instruments used in Odishan Folk Music, Tribal Music Traditions of Odisha, Cultural significance of folk and tribal music, Preservation and revival of local music |
| CC-10 (Music) | Music for Film and Theatre | Core Course | 6 | Role of Music in Visual Media, Principles of Film Scoring, Sound Design for Theatre, Background music techniques, Impact of music on narrative and emotion |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-1 (Music) | Research Methodology in Music | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Introduction to Research Design, Data Collection Methods in Musicology, Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis, Academic Writing and Report Preparation, Ethics in Music Research |
| DSE-2 (Music) | Applied Music | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Introduction to Music Therapy, Music Education Methodologies, Music Criticism and Appreciation, Community Music Engagement, Music in health and wellbeing |
| CC-11 (Music) | Advanced Raga and Tala | Core Course | 6 | Study of Complex Ragas and their nuances, Exploration of uncommon Talas, Advanced Rhythmic Patterns and Compositions, Elaborate improvisation techniques, Deep understanding of Raga aesthetics |
| CC-12 (Music) | History of Indian Music | Core Course | 6 | Detailed study of Ancient Indian Music History, Developments during the Medieval Period, Modern trends and movements in Indian Music, Biographical studies of legendary musicians, Evolution of musical instruments and forms |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-3 (Music) | Project Work/Dissertation | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Independent Research and Topic Selection, Methodology and Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation of Findings, Report Writing and Presentation, Practical Music Project or Performance |
| DSE-4 (Music) | Music Pedagogy | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Teaching Methodologies in Music Education, Curriculum Development for Music, Assessment and Evaluation in Music, Classroom Management for Music Teachers, Innovative teaching practices in music |
| CC-13 (Music) | Global Music Traditions | Core Course | 6 | Introduction to Western Classical Music, Jazz and Blues Traditions, African and Latin American Music, Music of East and Southeast Asia, Folk and World Music genres |
| CC-14 (Music) | Aesthetics and Philosophy of Music | Core Course | 6 | Philosophical Perspectives on Music, Cultural Impact and Significance of Music, Evolution of Musical Thought, Music as an Art Form and its interpretations, Ethnomusicology and cross-cultural understanding |




