Courses

A Sikh Musicology class, Spring 2012

Workshop on pakhāwaj with Parminder Singh Bhamra, Sikh Musicology course, Spring 2012

The aim of MUS 180A is to develop an appreciation for the Sikh musical repertoire, in relation to the cultural contexts, meaning and philosophy of performance. Proper vocabulary will be introduced along with instruments and genres played in the past and contemporary Sikh tradition.

In her classes, Dr. Cassio introduces a multidisciplinary approach to the Sikh musical repertoire, combining analysis of the cultural setting from the standpoint of the anthropology of music, with musical training, according to the traditional pedagogy (tālīm) as well as contemporary musicology.

Practical experience with a non-Western music language such as the Sikh Gurūs’ tradition plays an important role in the understanding of the repertoire and in developing a critical approach. As Mantle Hood affirmed: “The training of ears, eyes, hands and voice and fluency gained in these skills assures a real comprehension of theoretical studies, which in turns prepare the way for the professional activities of the performer, the composer, the musicologist and the music educator” (Hood, The challenge of Bi-musicality In Ethnomusicology 4/2:55).

The musical and textual exegesis of the hymns provides the students with an insight into the Sikh philosophy and history.

Classes are held with the use of modern technologies as Powerpoint  as well as musical training given with the use of traditional instruments related to the Sikh Gurūs’ era like the tānpurā and pakhāwaj. The instructor will train students in singing the hymns from the Sikh Gurus’ tradition set on the modal melodies (rāg-s) and rhythmic cycles (tāl-s).  

Among the activities of the Chair: present lectures and concerts of visiting scholars from abroad, independent studies, research projects, fieldwork and scholarships in India.

Related Courses:

• Music Around the World 004 (Music Department)
• Courses offered by the Sardarni Kuljit Kaur Bindra Chair in Sikh Studies through the Department of Religion.