Documentation of Classical Music in Nepal (Books & Educational Texts)
While oral transmission was once the primary mode of learning, the last few decades have seen an emergence of books and notated texts to preserve and teach classical music in Nepal. Scholars, gurus, and musicians have contributed to documenting classical forms, both in Devanagari and Nepali, often blending theory, notation, and practice.
Nepal has a growing collection of books dedicated to classical music education, focusing on Hindustani vocal and instrumental traditions. These books include detailed guidance on raag, taal, alankars, compositions, and notation systems. Prominent titles include “Sangeet Swaradhana” by Chandan Kumar Shrestha, a comprehensive guide for vocal and instrumental learners, and “Sangeet Sarowar” by Binay Verma, widely used in university music curricula. Other notable works like “Sangeet Shikshya” and “Raag Sangeet” also provide valuable theoretical and practical insights. These books serve as essential resources for students, teachers, and self-learners across Nepal’s classical music landscape.
The documentation includes:
- Books on Hindustani classical theory adapted to the Nepali context
- Notated compositions of ragas, bandishes, and folk-classical hybrids
- Academic texts used in Tribhuvan University and music colleges
- Biographical and instructional works by Nepali musicians
Top Books for Learning classical mUSIC
1. Sangeet swaradhana
“Sangeet Swaradhana” by Chandan Kumar Shrestha is a comprehensive guide to classical music, designed to educate aspiring musicians on the nuances of Nepali classical traditions. The book delves into the theoretical and practical aspects of music, offering detailed explanations of ragas, talas, and compositions.The book contains all the basic raagas information with wide range of taans.
The book also contains the classical eastern as well as western music. You will also find the Guitar Chords also. It serves as a valuable resource for students, teachers, and enthusiasts seeking to deepen their understanding of classical music in Nepal. The book is published in Nepali and is available in paperback format.This book stands as a testament to Chandan Kumar Shrestha’s dedication to preserving and promoting classical music in Nepal.
Features of the Book:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Detailed exploration of ragas, talas, and classical compositions. Details regarding the chords of guitar also.
- Educational Approach: Structured to facilitate learning for students and educators alike. Book facilitates both Beginners as well as for the advance learners.
- Cultural Insight: Provides context on the evolution and significance of classical music in Nepal.
- Language: Written in Nepali, making it accessible to a broad audience within the country.
- Format: Available in paperback, suitable for both classroom and personal study.
2. Sangeet Suras
“Sangeet Suras” by Sangeet Pravin Nararaj Dhakal is a seminal work that bridges the gap between traditional Hindustani classical music and the Nepali musical landscape. As one of Nepal’s pioneering classical music educators, Dhakal introduces complex concepts of ragas and talas in a manner accessible to Nepali readers. The book delves into the intricacies of various ragas, providing detailed notations and explanations, making it an invaluable resource for both students and seasoned musicians. The book has all the required ragas. More than 100 ragas are there in this book. Book also contains the description of raag and its bandishes with notations. The book is widely recommended by all the gurus of classical music.Its significance is further underscored by its inclusion in the curriculum of music programs, such as the MA in Music at Tribhuvan University
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Raga Analysis: Detailed exploration of various ragas, their structures, and emotional expressions.
- Tala System Explained: Insights into rhythmic patterns, enhancing the reader’s understanding of timing and rhythm in classical compositions.
- Notation and Composition: Inclusion of musical notations aids in practical application and performance.
- Cultural Context: Provides historical and cultural backgrounds of the musical forms discussed, enriching the reader’s appreciation of the art.
3. Sangeet Sutra
“Sangeet Sutra” by Dhan Bahadur Gopali is a foundational text in Nepali classical music education, widely utilized in academic settings and by self-learners. Divided into multiple parts, this series offers a structured approach to understanding the theoretical and practical aspects of Hindustani classical music within the Nepali context. The books delve into the intricacies of ragas, talas, and compositions, providing detailed explanations and notations that are accessible to readers with varying levels of musical background. Gopali’s work is recognized for its clarity and depth, making complex musical concepts approachable for students and enthusiasts alike. The series is available in Nepali and is used in various music programs across Nepal.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers a wide range of topics, including raga structures, tala systems, and classical compositions.
- Educational Utility: Widely adopted in music education programs, serving as a standard textbook for students pursuing formal studies in classical music.
- Accessible Language: Written in Nepali, facilitating understanding among native speakers and promoting the preservation of musical heritage.Facebook+1ThePrint+1
- Practical Notations: Includes detailed musical notations and exercises, aiding in the practical application of theoretical knowledge.
4.Music myth & melody
his seminal work delves into the rich history of Nepali classical music, tracing its evolution from the Lichchhavi period through the Malla, Shah, and Rana eras. Dr. Regmi, a virtuoso from the esteemed Regmi Gharana, combines authentic historical facts with cultural narratives to explore classical and folk forms of music, dance, and socio-cultural traditions that have shaped Nepal’s musical landscape over centuries.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Historical Analysis: Chronicles the development of Nepali music across different historical periods.
- Cultural Integration: Explores the interplay between music, dance, and socio-cultural traditions.
- Authentic Sources: Based on meticulous research and authentic historical evidence.
- Accessible Language: Written in English, making it accessible to a broad audience.
5. From Kashi to kantipur
“From Kashi to Kantipur: Theory, Practice, and History of the Banaras Gharana of Tabla” by Pandit Hom Nath Upadhyaya is a seminal work that bridges the rich traditions of Indian classical music with Nepal’s vibrant musical heritage. Drawing from his extensive training under maestros like Pandit Ramji Mishra, Pandit Shambhu Mishra, and Ustad Ahmed Jan Thirakwa, Upadhyaya offers readers an in-depth exploration of the Banaras Gharana’s rhythmic intricacies. The book delves into the theoretical foundations of tabla, providing detailed analyses of talas, compositions, and the nuanced techniques characteristic of the Banaras style. Beyond technical instruction, Upadhyaya enriches the narrative with historical insights, tracing the evolution of tabla playing from its roots in Kashi (Varanasi) to its flourishing presence in Kantipur (Kathmandu). This work stands as a testament to Upadhyaya’s dedication to preserving and promoting classical music traditions, making it an invaluable resource for students, educators, and enthusiasts alike.This book not only educates but also inspires, reflecting Pandit Hom Nath Upadhyaya’s lifelong commitment to the art of tabla.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive Analysis: Detailed exploration of the Banaras Gharana’s rhythmic patterns and compositions.
- Historical Context: Insights into the evolution of tabla playing from Varanasi to Kathmandu.
- Educational Resource: Serves as a foundational text for students and practitioners of classical music.
- Cultural Bridge: Highlights the interconnection between Indian and Nepali musical tradition.
Manasukh dhvani as the distributer
Manasukh Dhvani offers a wide selection of classical music books by renowned Nepali musicians and scholars. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, we provide books on raga, tala, vocal training, tabla, harmonium, and more, including titles like Sangeet Swaradhana, Sangeet Suras, and From Kashi to Kantipur. These books are ideal for students, teachers, and music lovers looking to deepen their understanding of Hindustani classical music in the Nepali context.
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📞 +977-9803712668
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