Riyaz
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Riyaz (lit. 'training, practice') is the systematic practice of music, dance or any other art form usually under the guidance of a teacher or preceptor.[1][2][3][4] In Hindustani classical music tradition, it is employed as a repertoire of exercises to cultivate the musicality of one's voice or fingers.[5] It is known as Sadhakam or Sadhana in Carnatic music.[6][7] It is followed rigorously by the students as well as exponents of vocal and dancing forms.
The practice
The Riyaaz or Sadhakam, which often starts early in the morning at four,[8] is taken seriously by the students for it requires intensity, discipline and commitment for years and forms an important component in the Guru - Shishya parampara (teacher-student tradition).[9]
In Carnatic music, the impression is that the assiduous sadhakam of the Trinity of Carnatic Music was the bedrock of the excellence of the old-world vidwans.[10]
A popular system for practice of the tabla, known as chilla, is mostly followed by Muslim exponents of music and involves 10–12 hours of daily riyaz for 40 days.[2]
Further reading
- The shaping of an ideal Carnatic musician through sādhana - Pantula Rama
