Indian Hindustani Classical Vocals Certification
Level 3 — Intermediate (Advanced Rāga & Music History Introduction)
To achieve intermediate performance maturity and introduce musicology, rāga origins and written evaluation.
Practical syllabus (Hindustani classical voice)
Rāga study (advanced group)
- Study of a set of 9 advanced rāgas approved by the board
- For each: Aroha–Avaroha, Pakad, one Bandish, basic unmetered Alap and sargam patterns
Laya & tāla
- Teentaal in detail
- Introduction to Ektaal
- Medium laya control and simple layakari
Performance requirement
- 20–25 minute performance including alap, bandish and sargam
- One rāga in more detailed presentation
Theory syllabus
Music history & origin
- Origin of Indian classical music with reference to Vedic tradition
- Role of Sāma Veda in Indian music
- Evolution of the rāga system
- Basic concept of gharana
Rāga theory
- Introduction to thaat system
- Rāga vs scale distinction
- Time theory of rāgas (basic awareness)
Tāla theory
- Teentaal structure
- Ektaal structure
- Types of laya
Sample theory question bank – Level 3
Short answer (2–3 marks)
- What is the role of Sāma Veda in Indian music?
- Define rāga.
- What is thaat?
- Explain Aroha–Avaroha.
- What is Teentaal?
Descriptive (5–8 marks)
- Describe the origin of Indian classical music with reference to the Vedas.
- Difference between rāga and scale.
- Explain the time theory of rāgas.
- Describe the structure of Teentaal.
- Discuss the importance of swara shuddhi in rāga singing.
Level 3 — Theory + Practical Examination
| Component / Criteria | Marks |
|---|---|
| Practical — Raga Grammar & Authenticity | 20 |
| Practical — Alap Development (Basic) | 15 |
| Practical — Bandish & Sargam Execution | 15 |
| Practical — Tala Accuracy (Teentaal / Ektaal) | 10 |
| Practical — Voice Culture & Presentation | 10 |
| Theory — Short Answers | 10 |
| Theory — Descriptive Questions | 15 |
| Theory — Viva / Oral | 5 |
| Total | 100 |
Pass Criteria: Minimum 55% (separate pass in theory & practical)
Note: Separate pass required in theory & practical.