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B-A-HONS in Hindustani Music Vocal Instrumental at University of Delhi

University of Delhi is a premier central university in Delhi, established in 1922. Renowned for its academic excellence across diverse programs, including Arts, Sciences, and Commerce, DU fosters a vibrant campus environment. Ranked 6th by NIRF 2024, it educates over 700,000 students.

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About the Specialization

What is Hindustani Music (Vocal/Instrumental) at University of Delhi Delhi?

This Hindustani Music (Vocal/Instrumental) program at University of Delhi focuses on comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical mastery of North Indian classical music. It delves deep into Raga-Tala systems, musicology, and performance aesthetics, preparing students for diverse roles in India''''s vibrant music industry. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional training and contemporary relevance, catering to the evolving demands of the Indian cultural landscape.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for aspiring musicians, vocalists, and instrumentalists with a foundational understanding and passion for Hindustani classical music. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into professional performance, teaching, or research in music, as well as cultural enthusiasts aiming to deepen their artistic knowledge. Students transitioning from preliminary music courses or those with family traditions in music will find this specialization particularly rewarding.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including professional performers, music educators, researchers, critics, and sound engineers. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2.5 LPA to 5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-15 LPA in performance or academia. Growth trajectories involve establishing performance careers, leading music ensembles, or contributing to music conservation and education initiatives across Indian cultural institutions.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Daily Riyaz and Basic Technique Mastery- (Semester 1-2)

Dedicate 2-3 hours daily to rigorous practice (riyaz) focusing on fundamental swaras, alankaras, and basic compositions. Prioritize correct posture, breathing control (for vocalists), and instrumental handling to build a strong foundation. Engage in listening to exemplary recordings to develop aural perception and internalize aesthetic nuances.

Tools & Resources

Tanpura Droid/iTablaPro apps, Recordings of legendary maestros on YouTube/Saregama, Peer practice sessions, Mentorship from senior students

Career Connection

Consistent riyaz builds the technical proficiency and musicality essential for all professional avenues in music, from performance to teaching, ensuring strong core skills for future success.

Understand Music Theory and History- (Semester 1-2)

Actively participate in theory classes and deeply engage with the historical and musicological aspects. Make notes on ragas, talas, gharanas, and important treatises. Supplement classroom learning with reading books on Indian music history and attending university-organized lectures by scholars. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts.

Tools & Resources

''''Indian Classical Music'''' by Ragini Devi, Books by Pandit V.N. Bhatkhande, Online resources on Indian music history, Departmental library resources

Career Connection

A strong theoretical and historical understanding is crucial for music educators, researchers, critics, and performers, providing context and depth to their artistic expression and academic pursuits.

Participate in Beginner-Level Performances- (Semester 1-2)

Seek opportunities to perform in informal settings, such as departmental ''''baithaks'''' or college cultural events. This helps in overcoming stage fright, developing confidence, and receiving early feedback. Focus on presenting a few well-rehearsed short pieces. Engage with peer feedback constructively.

Tools & Resources

College cultural societies, Departmental performance workshops, Local community music events

Career Connection

Early performance experience is vital for building confidence, stage presence, and the ability to connect with an audience, laying the groundwork for a successful performing career.

Intermediate Stage

Deep Dive into Raga and Tala- (Semester 3-4)

Move beyond basic compositions to explore the intricacies of Raga development, improvisational techniques (vistaar, taan, bol-taan, jod-jhala), and complex Tala patterns. Learn to identify and analyze subtle nuances of different ragas and practice playing/singing complete Raga renditions. Seek guidance for advanced techniques from faculty.

Tools & Resources

Advanced Raga theory books, Recordings of diverse Raga renditions, Personalized coaching from gurus, Tabla/Pakhawaj accompaniment for practice

Career Connection

Mastery of Raga and Tala forms the core of classical performance and composition, making graduates highly sought after for advanced performance, teaching, and creative roles in music.

Explore Diverse Musical Forms and Gharanas- (Semester 3-4)

Broaden your repertoire by studying various forms like Dhrupad, Dhamar, Tappa, Thumri, Dadra, and different gharana styles (e.g., Gwalior, Agra, Jaipur, Patiala for vocal; Maihar, Etawah for instrumental). Understand their unique characteristics, aesthetics, and performance traditions. Attend workshops and lecture-demonstrations.

Tools & Resources

Gharana-specific recordings and books, Workshops by visiting artists, Music archives and libraries

Career Connection

A wide understanding of musical forms and gharanas enhances versatility, making artists more adaptable and knowledgeable, which is beneficial for performances, cultural programs, and academic roles.

Engage in Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Projects- (Semester 3-4)

Actively participate in departmental or university-wide collaborations involving music with dance, theatre, or other art forms. This fosters teamwork, enhances creative thinking, and introduces students to different performance dynamics. Consider taking a relevant Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) or Multidisciplinary Course (MDC).

Tools & Resources

University''''s interdisciplinary arts clubs, Collaborative project platforms, Guest artist workshops

Career Connection

Collaborative experience is invaluable for careers in ensemble performance, film music, cross-cultural projects, and arts management, where adaptability and teamwork are highly valued.

Advanced Stage

Develop a Signature Performance Style and Repertoire- (Semester 5-6)

Focus on developing a unique performing identity by refining your artistic expression, mastering a diverse set of ragas, and perfecting complex compositions. Prepare a concert-ready repertoire. Seek critical feedback from experienced mentors and faculty on your performance delivery and artistic interpretation. Consider giving a full-fledged solo recital.

Tools & Resources

Personalized mentorship with a senior guru, Professional accompanists for practice, Recordings of self-performances for analysis, Music journals and critical reviews

Career Connection

Establishing a signature style is crucial for professional performers seeking to make a mark in the Indian classical music scene, leading to performance opportunities, recognition, and artistic fulfillment.

Undertake Research and Critical Analysis- (Semester 5-6)

Engage deeply with research methodology and critical analysis in music. Identify a unique research topic for your project/dissertation, conduct thorough literature reviews, gather primary and secondary data, and develop analytical skills. Present your findings effectively. This is crucial for academic and research-oriented careers.

Tools & Resources

University research databases, Academic journals on musicology, Research methodology workshops, Faculty advisors for guidance

Career Connection

Strong research and critical analysis skills are indispensable for careers in musicology, academia, archival work, and arts administration, enabling graduates to contribute to the intellectual discourse of music.

Network and Prepare for Professional Opportunities- (Semester 5-6)

Actively network with established artists, music producers, cultural organizers, and alumni. Attend music conferences, festivals, and workshops to build contacts. Prepare a professional portfolio including recordings, a resume, and stage photographs. Explore opportunities for internships, teaching assistantships, or entry-level positions in relevant organizations. Understand the business side of music.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn, professional networking events, Music industry directories, Career services center at the university, Workshops on career planning for artists

Career Connection

Networking and professional preparation are key to securing performance engagements, teaching roles, cultural management positions, and building a sustainable career in the competitive Indian music industry.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • As per University of Delhi guidelines for admission to B.A. (Hons.) Music courses, typically requiring 10+2 examination or equivalent with a minimum percentage, and often an aptitude test/performance audition as part of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) and Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS) process.

Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)

Credits: 112 Credits

Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MUHC-101Introduction to Hindustani MusicCore4Fundamentals of Indian Music, Raga and Tala concept, Swara and Laya classification, Basic musical terms, History of Indian Music (Ancient Period)
MUHC-102 (P)Hindustani Music Vocal Practical ICore4Basic Alankaras and Sargam, Swara-malika and Lakshana-Geet, Chhota Khyal compositions, Recognition of Ragas, Vocal exercises
MUHC-102 (P)Hindustani Music Instrumental Practical ICore4Basic Alankaras and Sargam, Swara-malika on instrument, Gat-toda in selected Ragas, Short Dhun compositions, Instrumental technique fundamentals
Generic Elective 1Elective (Generic)4
Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course 1 (Environmental Studies/English Communication)Compulsory2

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MUHC-203Elementary Musicology and AestheticsCore4Musicology concepts and definitions, Aesthetics in Indian Music, Nayak, Gayak, Vaggeyakar roles, Forms of Vocal and Instrumental compositions, Introduction to Gharana system
MUHC-204 (P)Hindustani Music Vocal Practical IICore4Medium tempo Khyal compositions, Dhrupad and Tarana forms, Sargam Geet in different Talas, Raga-based compositions, Improvisation exercises
MUHC-204 (P)Hindustani Music Instrumental Practical IICore4Vilambit and Drut Gat compositions, Alap, Jod, Jhala exposition, Raga expansion techniques, Tala variations and rhythmic patterns, Advanced instrumental exercises
Generic Elective 2Elective (Generic)4
Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course 2 (English Communication/Environmental Studies)Compulsory2

Semester 3

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MUHC-305History of Indian Music (Medieval Period)Core4Medieval musical developments in India, Study of Sangeet Ratnakar treatise, Contribution of Amir Khusrau, Impact of Bhakti Movement on Music, Emergence of new musical forms
MUHC-306 (P)Hindustani Music Vocal Practical IIICore4Bada Khyal compositions, Dhrupad and Dhamar forms, Tappa and Thumri styles, Advanced Raga rendering, Voice culture techniques
MUHC-306 (P)Hindustani Music Instrumental Practical IIICore4Medium speed Gat compositions, Jor and Jhala development, Advanced Toda patterns, Layakari in different Talas, Taal recognition and application
Skill Enhancement Course 1 (e.g., Stage Craft and Sound Management, Music Transcription)Elective (Skill Enhancement)2
Multidisciplinary Course 1 (e.g., Basic Computer Applications, Financial Literacy)Elective (Multidisciplinary)3
Generic Elective 3Elective (Generic)4

Semester 4

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MUHC-407History of Indian Music (Modern Period)Core4Modern era musical developments, Role of music conferences, Contributions of influential stalwarts, Institutionalization of music education, Impact of technology on music
MUHC-408 (P)Hindustani Music Vocal Practical IVCore4Advanced Khyal compositions, Sadra, Hori, Dadra forms, Complex Raga exposition and development, Microtonal nuances, Repertoire expansion
MUHC-408 (P)Hindustani Music Instrumental Practical IVCore4Advanced Vilambit and Drut Gat, Jod-Jhala intricacies, Layakari in challenging Talas, Concert etiquette and stage presence, Developing personal musical style
Skill Enhancement Course 2 (e.g., Folk Music Studies, Music Composition)Elective (Skill Enhancement)2
Value Added Course 1 (e.g., Constitutional Values, Ethics and Values)Compulsory2
Generic Elective 4Elective (Generic)4

Semester 5

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MUHC-509Applied MusicologyCore4Music notation systems, Role of media in music dissemination, Introduction to music therapy, Sound production and recording basics, Music archiving and preservation
MUHC-510 (P)Hindustani Music Vocal Practical VCore4Concert repertoire building, Aesthetics of performance, Study of Gharana styles, Creative interpretation and improvisation, Vocal projection and stage delivery
MUHC-510 (P)Hindustani Music Instrumental Practical VCore4Advanced Raga development, Jod-Jhala intricacies and virtuosity, Collaborative playing techniques, Performance strategies and presentation, Instrument maintenance and care
Discipline Specific Elective 1 (e.g., Percussion, Western Music Study)Elective (Discipline Specific)4
Discipline Specific Elective 2 (e.g., Psychology of Music, Dance Studies)Elective (Discipline Specific)4
Multidisciplinary Course 2 (e.g., Digital Music Marketing, Entrepreneurship)Elective (Multidisciplinary)3

Semester 6

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
MUHC-611Research Methodology in MusicCore4Research design and formulation, Data collection methods in music, Qualitative and quantitative analysis, Academic writing and thesis structure, Music criticism and ethics
MUHC-612 (P)Hindustani Music Vocal Practical VICore4Comprehensive Raga elaboration, Articulating emotion through music, Audience engagement techniques, Performance mastery and stage presence, Preparation for solo recital/examinations
MUHC-612 (P)Hindustani Music Instrumental Practical VICore4Instrumental virtuosity and flair, Improvised sections and spontaneous creativity, Exploration of fusion techniques, Advanced rhythmic patterns and complex Talas, Preparation for solo recital/examinations
Discipline Specific Elective 3 (e.g., Sufi Music, Carnatic Music Overview)Elective (Discipline Specific)4
Discipline Specific Elective 4 (e.g., World Music, Music Journalism)Elective (Discipline Specific)4
Value Added Course 2 (e.g., Swachh Bharat, Digital Empowerment)Compulsory2
MURP-601Research Project/Dissertation/Academic InternshipProject10Research proposal development, Literature review and data collection, Data analysis and interpretation, Thesis writing and presentation skills, Ethical considerations in research
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