FORM IN INDIAN AND WESTERN MUSIC

The purpose of this book is to explain form in two systems of music – Indian and Western. The introductory chapter of the book explains form in music in general terms. Besides covering many forms in Western music, the book offers discussion on six important forms in Indian music. The author has first explained form in vocal and instrumental Hindustani music respectively. He further discusses thirteen leading forms in Karnatak or South Indian music.
Thereafter, forms in vocal and instrumental Western music have been explained. Eleven leading composers, ranging from Vivaldi to Schoenberg, have been discussed in the book. The book also offers a chapter on history and technique of conducting in Western music.
Bringing out the strong points of both systems, the author has also discussed the hybrids of Western and Indian music. The last chapter deals with Aman Ali’s contribution to Indian music and the Bhendibazar Gharana.
Since form is related to content, interest in form will create interest in content. It is hoped that this book will increase the appreciation of Indian and Western music.

Chetan Karnani taught English Literature but his passion is classical music – both Indian and Western. He is a Khayal singer and has studied music under Pandit Mohan Lal Kathak, Professor Govind Rao Rajurkar and Professor Suresh Bhidwalkar. Dr. Karnani was a Guest Fellow and Visiting Fellow at Indian Institute of Advanced Study, Shimla. He has worked on I.A. Richards at Magdalene College, Cambridge. Dr. Karnani was National Emeritus Fellow, appointed by the University Grants Commission. He has written eleven books, including Nissim Eekiel (1974), Listening to Hindustani Music (1976), Nirad C. Chaudhuri (1980), I.A. Richards: A Critical Assessment (1985), Indian Writing in English (1994), Listening to Indian Music (1999), Eminent Indian–English Writers (2001), and Form in Indian Music (2005).