Learn a popular Krithi SAAMAJAVARA GAMANA in raaga HINDOLAM of ADI THALAM
What you will learn
Students can practice and play along while watching the fingering and notations simultaneously
Students get to know the actual method of playing Krithis.
Students can learn the Half Notes on Flute.
Students can easily pick up the fingering skills by learning line by line of the Krithis.
Why take this course?
Tyagaraja is one of the Trinity of Carnatic music, alongside Sri Muthuswami Dikshitar and Shri Thyagarajan (Shri Haridasa). He lived during the late 18th to early 19th century and was a pivotal figure in the development of modern Carnatic music. His contributions to music are not only vast but also profound in terms of their influence on the art form, especially in terms of lyrical and musical expression.
Here’s a brief overview of his life and contributions:
Early Life and Musical Journey:
- Tyagaraja was born into a poor family in 1767 in a village called Tanjore (now Thanjavur) in Tamil Nadu, India.
- He was born into the Iyengar community, which is traditionally associated with Brahmins and scholars of Hindu scriptures.
- From a young age, he showed exceptional talent in music and was mentored by his elder brother, Rangaramanuja, who was also a musician.
- Tyagaraja’s musical education included learning from the court musicians at Tanjore and being influenced by the Dikshitar school of music.
Musical Compositions:
- His compositions are largely devotional and philosophical in nature, often exploring themes of bhakti (devotion) and advaita (non-dualism).
- He composed over 24,000 songs, though only around 700 have survived, mainly due to the lack of systematic documentation at the time.
- His compositions cover a wide range of musical forms, including kritis, varnas, jatiswarams, asaαΉΔ«s (rhythmic improvisations), and even a couple of plays or operas: “PrahlΔda Bhakti Vijaya” and “Nauka Charitam.”
- His compositions are set in various ragas, and he is credited with the creation or development of several ragas that bear his name, such as Tyagaraja Kalyani.
Influence and Legacy:
- Tyagaraja’s music emphasized rhythmic complexity and was known for its melodic beauty.
- He did not seek official patronage, preferring to live a life of devotion and simplicity.
- His influence on Carnatic music is profound, with his compositions still being sung and revered today.
- The Tyagaraja Aradhana festival is held annually in Thiruvaiyaru to commemorate his life and contributions. It is a significant event for Carnatic musicians, who perform his kritis and other compositions.
Teaching and Disciples:
- Tyagaraja had no formal school or discipleship program but taught informally through performance and personal interaction.
- His students included both laypersons and professional musicians, and he imparted his knowledge without any distinction of social status or wealth.
Recognition and Impact:
- Tyagaraja’s contributions to Carnatic music are celebrated not only for their musical quality but also for their spiritual depth.
- His approach to music as a means of devotion and self-realization has influenced countless musicians and listeners.
- His compositions continue to be a cornerstone of the Carnatic repertoire, and his life story is often cited as an example of dedication to art and divine worship.
Tyagaraja’s legacy lives on through his music, which remains a source of inspiration and reverence in the world of Carnatic music. His approach to melody, rhythm, and devotion has shaped the genre and continues to influence contemporary musicians and composers.