What are the different styles of Hindustani music?
Answers
Hindustani Music is the term used to describe the music of northern India, which is regarded by many people as true Indian music. Influenced by music from Persia and Central Asia, it also refers to vocal styles mentioned below: dhrupad, khyal, dadra and thumri. Music from southern India. features shorter pieces without the long, slow tempo phases. Even though it is less well known in the West it arguably is more accessible to Western ears. [Source: Rough Guide of World Music]
Music from the north can be divided into two types: 1) classical and 2) light classical (also referred to as semi-classical). The classical form requires stricter adherence to the raga formula while light classical allows more opportunities for deviations and does not require the intense concentration that classical Indian music requires.
Light classical music is defined as a style of music that follows the rules of raag and taal but adheres to them less strictly than with classical music. The alaap is usually very short or doesn't exist and the melodies are often derived from popular folk music and are rendered in medium ( madhya kaal) or fast ( teevra gati) tempo. Types of light classical music include jugalbandi, an instrumental duet. Dadra, thumri, ghazal and qawwali refer to light classical singing styles as well as music styles (See Below).
Classical ragas have gone though changes similar to those of classical Western music. Alaaps have been shortened. Popular ragas are heard over and over again in easily digestible forms.