Mastering Karnatik singing is a journey of patience, precision, and passion

Notes & Pitch Variations

In Karnatik music, there are 8 notes, Sa (Low), Ri, Ga, Ma, Pa, Da, Ni, Sa (High). Each note corresponds to a specific pitch, and when singing these, the pitch naturally rises from lower to higher. However, it's not just about hitting the notes; sustaining and expressing them properly is crucial.

The length of each note often varies based on the composition and style.

Proper breath control is essential to maintaining purity and precision in pitch.


Speed & Levels

Carnatic music incorporates three speeds, and this progression is not about altering the thalam's tempo but rather how fast the notes are sung.

Level 1: Basic speed—each note is given ample time to be sung clearly.
Level 2: Moderate speed—transition between notes happens faster.
Level 3: High-speed (Drutam)—requires excellent control and fluency.

Practicing progressively across these speeds helps develop dexterity and mastery over singing phrases (swaras).


Thalam & Posture

Maintaining the right posture (Padmasanam or cross-legged sitting position) helps with breath control, voice stability, and concentration while performing Karnatik music. Additionally, the Thalam system (rhythmic hand gestures) acts as a metronome, ensuring consistent timing.

Steps to Keep Track of Beats

Start with an open palm pat—this marks the first beat.

Tap using:
Pinky finger
Ring finger
Middle finger
(These cover the next three beats, bringing the count to four.)

Open palm pat again.
Flip your palm facing up and pat.
Flip back facing down and pat.
Flip once more facing up and pat.
(These cover another four beats, completing a cycle of eight.)

This 8-beat cycle repeats consistently throughout the composition. Even as the speed of singing increases, the thalam remains steady, allowing the singer to stay grounded in rhythm.