Some basic characteristics of Carnatic music are
i. It is melody – and not harmony – based1. In simple terms, this means that by and large, the stress is on successive notes rather than simultaneous notes and chords.
ii. It gives equal importance to melody, rhythm and lyrics.
iii. There is an even balance between re-creativity (soulful interpretation of compositions of great masters) and creativity (on-the-spot improvisation).
iv. It is a fine blend of science and art. It is interesting to note that ancient Indians classified music both as a science and as an art. [The spiritually and philosophically inclined also find it most inspiring.]
v. The concerts are generally solo / duet, but ample opportunities are given to the accompanists to display their skill.
TIPS FOR APPRECIATION
• An open mind is probably the first and foremost step required for cultivating the art of listening. This will go a long way towards increasing one’s ability to enjoy the familiar as well as the unfamiliar.
• Repeated experience contributes to a greater understanding of the intricate beauty of a system like Carnatic music.
• It is vital to be independent and not go by the tastes and opinions of peers. The same piece of music can suggest different things to different people. It may even bring different responses from the same person during different hearings.
• Starting with instrumental music and then moving on to vocal may work better for some. The former is generally more communicative to the unexposed listener.
• One need not go in for too many technical details in the initial stages, like names and definitions of every aspect connected with the system. It is better to focus one’s attention on the actual music – melody, rhythm etc., and, preferably, one thing at a time. For instance, one can try to identify the differences in the tonal qualities and capacities of different instruments, the rhythmic vigour of different artistes and so on. Gradually one can try to recognize and even anticipate the events, like the possible tune of the succeeding line and the change in tempo. With attentive listening and sufficient exposure, one can easily perceive how different effects are created.
• One can start participating more actively while listening-one can, for instance, hum the tune along with the artistes or try to maintain rhythm with them. (Care has to be taken that it is not done too loudly in a public concert!)