Carnatic Swaras: The Building Blocks of Raga – Learn, Practice, and Elevate Your Music

The 7 basic notes are the core of music in all music forms. In Indian classical music, they are known as the saat Swaras, and in Carnatic music, they are known as the swarm. Though, there are fewer differences between the both but the differences are significant. In this blog, we are going to explore in depth the Carnatic swarms. 

WHAT IS SWARAM?

Every form of music has some basic notes out of which the whole music genre is created. These basic notes are known as the Swarams. In Carnatic music, the seven basic Swarams are Sa Ri Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni Sa. let us explore them further in the next para. 

SWARAM IN CARNATIC MUSIC 

1. Sa (Shadjam): Sa is the base of all notes and is the first note of the list of 7 notes.
2. Ri (Rishabham): re is the second note and is comparatively high pitched than the first Swar sa. It adds a unique melody to the combination. 
3. Ga (Gandharam): Ga is the third note of the saptak and is the note that adds sweetness to the combined melody. 
4. Ma (Madhyamam): Ma, the fourth note, plays a vital role in evoking different moods and feelings within the music.
5. Pa (Panchamam): Pa, the fifth note, provides stability and balance to the melodic progression.
6. Da (Dhaivatam): Da, the sixth note, adds a touch of melancholy and depth to the Raga.
7. Ni (Nishadam): Ni, the seventh note, adds a sense of resolution and completeness to the melodic structure.

PRACTICING SWARAM

During a Carnatic music performance, the artist explores and elaborates on a Raga through Swarams. This improvisational segment, known as “Ragalapana” or “Alapana,” allows the musician to showcase their creativity and virtuosity. Through intricate patterns of Swarams, the artist weaves a musical tapestry, expressing the Raga’s unique emotions and nuances.

MELODIC EXPRESSION WITH SWARAM 

In Carnatic music, melodies are constructed by combining these seven Swarams in various sequences. The ascending order of Swarams is called “Arohanam,” while the descending order is called “Avarohanam.” Different combinations of Swarams create a variety of Ragas, each having its unique emotional and aesthetic appeal.

TIPS TO PRACTICE

1. Understand the Basics: Before diving into Swaram practice, familiarize yourself with the seven Swarams – Sa, Ri, Ga, Ma, Pa, Da, and Ni. Learn their positions and corresponding pitches. Understanding the structure of Ragas and the significance of each Swaram in a Raga will provide you with a strong foundation.
2. Vocalization is Key: The voice is the primary instrument in Carnatic music, so vocal practice is essential. Start by vocalizing each Swaram with clarity and precision. Focus on maintaining proper pitch, tone, and pronunciation. Regular vocal exercises will improve your ability to express yourself effectively.
3. Gradual Progression: Begin with simple Swaram patterns and gradually progress to more complex ones. Practice ascending and descending patterns of Swarams (Arohanam and Avarohanam) in different Ragas. Start with slow tempos and increase the pace as you gain confidence and proficiency.
4. Rhythmic Accompaniment: Practice Swarams in conjunction with a rhythmic accompaniment, such as a metronome or a simple Tala (rhythmic cycle). This will help you develop a sense of timing and enable you to stay in sync with the beat.
5. Alankarams and Geethams: Alankarams and Geethams are structured exercises that involve combining Swarams in various patterns. Work on these exercises regularly to enhance your fluency and agility in navigating different Swaram sequences.
6. Explore Ragas and Ragalapana: Immerse yourself in exploring various Ragas through Ragalapana or Alapana. This improvisational practice allows you to express the essence of a Raga through Swarams. Listen to recordings of seasoned musicians for inspiration.

ADDITIONAL SOURCES 

• 12 Swara Sthanams in Music | VoxGuru ft. Pratibha Sarathy-12 Swara Sthanams in Music | VoxGuru ft. Pratibha Sarathy
• Sarali Varisai : 1 – 14 (All three speeds –Sarali Varisai : 1 – 14 (All three speeds)
• Nihal Maatangi School Saraliswaras- Lesson-1 | Scale – A. 4-speeds – Nihal Maatangi School Saraliswaras- Lesson-1 | Scale – A. 4-speeds