rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryragaMelodic framework
noun

raga

RAH-guh/ˈrɑːɡə/

A melodic framework for improvisation in Indian classical music.

The teacher shows how two different phrases follow the same raga.

Show a raga as a reusable melodic framework through a real Bhupali practice reference and two different short phrases drawn from its note material, physically used by a teacher and sitar student.
Etymology
ragaSanskritcolor, mood; musical mode

Sanskrit rāga joins the ideas of color and mood with musical mode. The name thus connects a melodic framework with the mood or expressive color of the music.

In context

Keda Music Ltd12:49
people try to prove that they can express a particular raga better than other people
WHAT IS A RAGA? Demystifying Indian Music #4

More examples

  • She improvises within the raga while keeping its characteristic phrases recognizable.
  • The concert opens with a slow exploration of a raga.
  • These two ragas share several notes but have different melodic patterns.

Forms

raga · ragas

Similar words

mode
A pitch framework that need not include a raga’s melodic conventions.
scale
An ordered set of notes, not a complete melodic framework.