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BACHELOR-OF-ARTS in Music at R.K. Mahila College, Giridih
Giridih, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Music at R.K. Mahila College, Giridih Giridih?
This Music program at Sri R. K. Mahila College, affiliated with Vinoba Bhave University, offers a comprehensive study of Indian classical music, encompassing both theoretical foundations and practical performance skills. Designed under NEP 2020, it preserves and promotes India''''s rich musical heritage, fostering a deep understanding of Ragas, Talas, and various vocal and instrumental forms. It blends traditional gurukul-style learning with contemporary academic approaches, preparing students for diverse roles in the evolving Indian music industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for young women with a passion for music, seeking formal training in Hindustani classical music or exploring careers in the arts. It caters to fresh graduates from 10+2 who aspire to become performers, educators, music therapists, or cultural researchers. Aspiring musicians looking to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, or those wishing to contribute to the cultural landscape of Jharkhand and India, will find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue careers as professional vocalists or instrumentalists, music teachers in schools and colleges, cultural event managers, music journalists, or even start their own music academies. In India, there is a growing demand for trained musicians in the entertainment industry, cultural institutions, and as independent artists. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more through performances, teaching, and compositions. Opportunities for higher studies in musicology also exist.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Raga and Taal Fundamentals Daily- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate 2-3 hours daily to rigorous practice of basic Ragas (e.g., Yaman, Bhupali) and Talas (e.g., Teen Taal, Keherwa). Focus on correct swara placement, laya, and pronunciation (for vocal). This builds essential musical memory and technical proficiency.
Tools & Resources
Tanpura app/physical instrument, Tabla accompaniment app/teacher, Notation books (e.g., Bhatkhande Sangeet Shastra), Recordings of renowned maestros
Career Connection
Establishes a strong technical foundation crucial for any musical career, cultivates discipline, and sharpens aural skills, preparing students for advanced learning and professional performances.
Engage in Peer Learning and Group Practice- (Semester 1-2)
Form small groups with classmates for regular practice sessions. Provide constructive feedback, learn from each other''''s interpretations, and practice accompanying each other. This enhances collaborative skills and exposes students to diverse musical perspectives.
Tools & Resources
College common rooms or music practice spaces, Local community halls for group rehearsals, Online collaboration tools for virtual practice sessions
Career Connection
Develops ensemble skills, fosters musical collaboration, improves adaptability, and helps build a supportive network which is invaluable for future professional endeavors and collaborations.
Attend Local Concerts and Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Actively seek out and attend live classical music concerts, folk performances, and workshops in Giridih or nearby cities like Ranchi/Dhanbad. Observe diverse performance styles, listen critically, and engage with performing artists to deepen appreciation.
Tools & Resources
Local event listings and cultural calendars, College cultural notices and department announcements, Social media groups for music enthusiasts and event updates
Career Connection
Expands musical exposure and inspires artistic growth, provides invaluable networking opportunities with local artists and organizers, and helps students understand the live performance ecosystem in India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Specialized Skills and Techniques- (Semester 3-5)
Identify a specific area of interest within music (e.g., a particular instrument, vocal style, folk music genre, or music production basics) and seek advanced training or workshops beyond the core curriculum. This allows for deeper exploration.
Tools & Resources
Online courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy for specific music technologies, Specialized private teachers or local music institutes for advanced instrumental/vocal training, Music books focusing on specific genres or techniques
Career Connection
Cultivates a unique skill set for niche career paths (e.g., studio musician, folk artist, specialized music educator), making graduates more competitive and marketable in the diverse Indian music industry.
Actively Participate in College and Inter-Collegiate Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Regularly participate in solo and group music competitions to gain crucial stage experience, overcome performance anxiety, and receive critical evaluation from expert judges. This hones performance prowess and resilience.
Tools & Resources
College cultural committees and event organizers, University youth festivals and inter-university cultural events, Local music competitions and talent shows
Career Connection
Builds confidence, refines performance skills under pressure, creates a valuable performance portfolio, and offers recognition that significantly aids in future auditions, applications for scholarships, or professional engagements.
Explore Basic Music Technology and Recording- (Semester 4-5)
Acquire fundamental skills in digital audio workstations (DAW), including basic recording, editing, and mixing techniques. This is essential for creating demo tracks and producing high-quality content for self-promotion.
Tools & Resources
Free DAWs such as Audacity, GarageBand, or basic versions of professional software, YouTube tutorials and online learning modules for music production basics, A basic condenser microphone and audio interface (optional for home setup)
Career Connection
Crucial for independent musicians in the digital era, enabling self-recording of demo tracks, creation of online content, and opening doors to careers in sound engineering, music production, or content creation.
Advanced Stage
Build a Professional Performance Portfolio- (Semester 6-8)
Curate and create high-quality audio and video recordings of key performances, document participation in prestigious concerts and competitions, and develop a professional online presence through a website or dedicated social media channels.
Tools & Resources
Professional recording studios (if budget allows), home studio setup for quality demos, Video editing software (e.g., DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Rush), Portfolio websites (e.g., Wix, WordPress) or dedicated artist pages on social media platforms
Career Connection
Absolutely crucial for attracting concert opportunities, securing teaching positions, applying for grants, or pursuing higher education in music both within India and internationally. This showcases talent professionally.
Engage in a Research Project or Dissertation- (Semester 6-8)
For those pursuing the 4-year degree, immerse deeply in the research project or dissertation. For 3-year graduates, consider undertaking a smaller independent study on a musicological topic or a creative composition project. Focus on critical inquiry.
Tools & Resources
College library resources and university digital databases (e.g., Shodhganga), Academic journals focusing on musicology and ethnomusicology (e.g., Indian Musicological Society Journal), Mentorship from university faculty and research supervisors
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking, analytical skills, and academic writing abilities, which are highly valued for careers in music research, academia, music journalism, or in roles requiring detailed content creation.
Network with Industry Professionals and Mentors- (Semester 6-8)
Actively connect with established musicians, music educators, event organizers, cultural administrators, and music industry executives. Seek mentorship and guidance to understand diverse career pathways and industry dynamics.
Tools & Resources
Attending music festivals, workshops, and industry conferences, Leveraging professional social media platforms like LinkedIn for connections, Engaging with the college''''s alumni network and cultural bodies for introductions
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships, collaborations, performance opportunities, and provides crucial insights into navigating the complex professional music landscape in India. Mentors offer invaluable advice and support.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) pass from a recognized board, as per Vinoba Bhave University admission norms.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters (Four Year Under Graduate Programme - FYUGP, with 3-year exit option)
Credits: 160 (as per VBU NEP 2020 FYUGP guidelines for 4-year degree; 120 credits for 3-year exit) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ1 | Indian Music (Theory) | Core | 4 | Definition of Music, Naad, Swara, Saptak, That, Raag, Taal, Varna, Alankar, Merukhand, Laya, Tala theory, Classification of musical instruments |
| SEC1 | Indian Music (Practical) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Alankars in various Thhats, Svar Malika, Lakshana Geet, Simple Bandishes in specified Ragas, Teen Taal, Keherwa Taal, Dadra Taal (Practical), Basic vocal/instrumental exercises |
| AEC1 | Communicative English/MIL | Ability Enhancement | 2 | Basic grammar and composition, Reading comprehension, Listening skills, Spoken English/Hindi for daily communication |
| VAC1 | Digital Education/Constitutional Values/Global Citizenship | Value Added | 2 | Fundamentals of digital literacy, Indian Constitution basic principles, Civic duties and responsibilities, Global issues and awareness |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ2 | Indian Music (Theory) | Core | 4 | Ragas (Yaman, Bhupali, Kafi, Khamaj), Talas (Jhaptal, Rupak), Forms of Vocal Music (Dhrupad, Dhamar, Khyal, Thumri), History of Music (ancient to medieval), Contribution of musicians (Tansen, Amir Khusro) |
| SEC2 | Indian Music (Practical) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Raag Bhupali/Yaman/Bihag (Drut khayal), Tarana compositions, Dhrupad and Dhamar (basic forms), Instrumental rendition of compositions |
| MDC1 | Multi-Disciplinary Course | Multi-Disciplinary | 3 | |
| MN1 | Minor Course | Minor | 4 | |
| AEC2 | MIL/Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement | 2 | Environmental conservation and sustainability, Pollution and its impacts, Basic ecology and biodiversity, Renewable energy sources |
| VAC2 | Common Value Added Course | Value Added | 2 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ3 | Indian Music (Theory) | Core | 4 | Gharanas of Music (Kirana, Gwalior, Agra), Aesthetics of Music and Raga-Ragini system, Music criticism and appreciation, Comparison of Indian and Western music concepts |
| MJ4 | Indian Music (Practical) | Core | 4 | Ragas (Miyan Ki Todi, Darbari Kanhra), Compositions (Vilambit and Drut Khyal), Alap, Taan, Layakari (Practical application), Sargam and Tihai practice |
| SEC3 | Music (Practical) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Folk music of Jharkhand and other regions, Light classical forms (Ghazal, Bhajan), Basic instrumental techniques (Harmonium, Tabla, Sitar introduction), Music composition basics |
| MN2 | Minor Course | Minor | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ5 | Indian Music (Theory) | Core | 4 | Musicology and its scope, Research methodology in Music, Modern trends in Indian Classical Music, Notation systems (Bhatkhande, Paluskar) |
| MJ6 | Indian Music (Practical) | Core | 4 | Complex Ragas (Multani, Puriya Dhanashree), Advanced Bandishes and Taan patterns, Accompaniment practice (vocal/instrumental), Tabla/Pakhawaj accompaniment for various Talas |
| SEC4 | Music (Theory/Practical) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Basic Audio Recording techniques, Introduction to Music Production software (DAW), Microphone types and their uses, Sound engineering basics for live performances |
| MN3 | Minor Course | Minor | 4 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ7 | Indian Music (Theory) | Core | 4 | Comparative study of music systems (Carnatic vs. Hindustani), Ethnomusicology and cultural context of music, Psychology of Music (emotion, cognition), Music and Spirituality in various traditions |
| MJ8 | Indian Music (Practical) | Core | 4 | Advanced Raga exposition (Jhinjhoti, Bageshri), Vilambit and Drut compositions with detailed elaboration, Solo performances (prepared pieces for public display), Creative improvisation in classical framework |
| MDC2 | Multi-Disciplinary Course | Multi-Disciplinary | 3 | |
| SEC5 | Music (Theory/Practical) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Music Journalism and writing, Event Management for musical concerts, Music Marketing basics and promotion, Public Relations in Music industry |
| VAC3 | Common Value Added Course | Value Added | 2 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ9 | Indian Music (Theory) | Core | 4 | World Music (Western Classical, Jazz, Folk globally), Music Therapy principles and applications, Contemporary Music practices in India, Copyrights and Intellectual Property Rights in Music |
| MJ10 | Indian Music (Practical) | Core | 4 | Professional repertoire building, Concert performance (full length practice), Ensemble playing and coordination, Creative compositions and presentation |
| SEC6 | Music (Practical) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Vocal/Instrumental Pedagogy, Teaching methodologies in Music education, Lesson planning and curriculum design, Performance assessment and feedback techniques |
| MN4 | Minor Course | Minor | 4 | |
| RP1 | Research Project / Dissertation | Research Project | 3 | Research proposal writing, Literature review in musicology, Data collection and analysis methods, Dissertation writing and presentation |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ11 | Advanced Music Theory (Specialized Area) | Core | 4 | Specialized topics in Musicology, Advanced History of Indian Music (period-wise), Aesthetics of specific musical forms and genres, Critical analysis of musical compositions |
| MJ12 | Advanced Music Practical (Specialized Area) | Core | 4 | Extensive Raga practice with complex improvisations, Performance preparation for advanced concerts, Creative improvisation techniques, Mastery of rare and complex compositions |
| SEC7 | Music (Practical) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Advanced Music production techniques, Digital Audio Workstations (DAW) advanced features, Mixing and Mastering basics for professional audio, Sound design for various media |
| RP2 | Research Project/Dissertation Continuation | Research Project | 6 | Advanced research methods and methodologies, Data analysis and interpretation, Ethical considerations in music research, Progress report and chapter writing |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ13 | Interdisciplinary Music Studies | Core | 4 | Music and Sociology: cultural impact, Music and Psychology: therapeutic effects, Music and Literature: poetry and song forms, Music in Film and other visual media |
| MJ14 | Applied Musicology / Pedagogy | Core | 4 | Music education curriculum development, Assessment methods in music teaching, Music therapy applications in health settings, Entrepreneurship and career management in Music |
| SEC8 | Music (Practical) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Music for healing and wellness, Sound meditation techniques, Community music projects and outreach, Vocal/instrumental group coaching |
| RP3 | Major Research Project/Dissertation Final | Research Project | 6 | Final dissertation submission and editing, Viva-Voce examination preparation, Publication strategies for research papers, Conference presentations and academic discourse |
