The Movement of Sound
MusicDiary
of TathoiMastering Alankar & Ornamentation in Hindustani Classical Music.
Back to MusicThe "Feel" Cheat Sheet
- Meend: Stretch it (Elastic)
- Gamak: Shake it (Earthquake)
- Andolan: Sway it (Hammock)
- Murki: Swirl it (Liquid)
- Khatka: Strike it (Whip)
VISUAL SHAPE: A slow, gentle horizontal wave
The Physics
Swaying a hammock
A hammock gently swaying in a breeze.
The Sound (Phonetics)
"Yuu-wuu-yuu-wuu"
A slow, gentle oscillation. A 'hypnotic wave' strictly vowel-based.
PRACTICEThe Heavy Pendulum
1
Sing Komal Ga and hold it steady.
2
Push pitch slightly up towards Ma (Inhale of swing).
3
Let gravity pull voice back to Ga (Exhale of swing).
"If you get tired in your throat, you are doing it wrong. If you get tired in your abs, you are doing it right." (Specifically for Gamak/Heavy styles)