Indian Hindustani Classical Vocals Certification
Level 4 — Advanced 1 (Rāga Depth, Alap & Tān)
To develop advanced rāga elaboration skills, including more detailed alap, tāns, deeper tāla understanding and expanded theoretical knowledge.
Practical syllabus (Hindustani classical voice)
Rāga study (advanced)
- Study of 9 advanced rāgas as prescribed by the board
- For each: Vilambit bandish, detailed alap, sargam and basic–moderate tāns
Laya & tāla
- Teentaal, Ektaal and Jhaptaal at appropriate speeds
- Layakari awareness
- Controlled tān execution within tāla
Performance requirement
- 30-minute performance including one rāga in full detail and one shorter rāga presentation
Theory syllabus
Advanced music history
- Development of Khayāl gayaki
- Importance of rāga aesthetics
- Rasa theory in rāgas
Tāla & structure
- Importance of tāla in performance
- Laya, layakari and tempo control
Sample theory question bank – Level 4
Short answer
- Define Alap.
- What are tāns?
- What is layakari?
- Name any four Hindustani tālas.
- What is rāsa in music?
Descriptive
- Importance of Alap in Khayāl singing.
- Development of Khayāl gayaki.
- Role of tāla in rāga presentation.
- Relationship between rāga and bhāva.
- Explain Teentaal and Jhaptaal with structure.
Level 4 — Theory + Practical Examination
| Component / Criteria | Marks |
|---|---|
| Practical — Detailed Alap | 20 |
| Practical — Taans (Clarity & Control) | 15 |
| Practical — Bandish Presentation | 15 |
| Practical — Tala & Layakari | 10 |
| Practical — Aesthetic Expression (Bhava) | 10 |
| Theory — Descriptive Theory | 15 |
| Theory — Raga & Tala Analysis | 10 |
| Theory — Viva / Oral | 5 |
| Total | 100 |
Pass Criteria: Minimum 55% (separate pass in theory & practical)
Note: Separate pass required in theory & practical.