What is a Raga???

[kc]

"Broadly speaking then, a raga can be regarded as a tonal framework for composition and improvisation; a dynamic musical entity with a unique form, embodying a unique musical idea. As well as the fixed scale, there are features particular to each raga such as the order and hierarchy of its tones, their manner of intonation and ornamentation, their relative strength and duration, and specific approach. Where ragas have identical scales, they are differentiated by virtue of these musical characteristics.

Yet ragas are not static. We shall see that in the fascinating but complex history of ragas, some can be traced back to ancient or medieval times; others originated (or were rediscovered or reinvented) only a few centuries or even a few decades ago. Virtually all ragas, however, have undergone transformations over the centuries, and many of them have fallen into disuse.

Most importantly, a raga must evoke a particular emotion or create a certain 'mood,' which is hard to define, however. As the term raga itself implies, it should 'colour' the mind, bring delight, move the listeners and stimulate an emotional response. In other words, the concept of raga, which has evolved over a period of two millennia, eludes an adequate brief definition. It is an open-ended concept in which the association of a particular raga with a specific emotional state, a season or time of day, though intangible, is as relevant as its melodic structure."

~The Raga Guide

Now lets all go see Neeraj Prems Raggafaire this Saturday at Pepper Jack's, 7pm. $10.

http://ragamusicschool.com/ragaffaire.htm

http://pepperjackcafe.com

[zero]

That was really helpful to read. It solidifies a few things in my mind.

[The Chameleon]

This is true in the traditional sense of "Ragga". However the term "Ragga" is also applies to a certsain type of jungle/dum & bass music. In this framework the term "Ragga" inferes that the jungle/drum & bass in question has strong reggae and jamaican overetones, with dancehall chatted vocals or dub samples withtin. Ragga jungle also is usually sampled and chopped as opposed to programmed .

[kc]

Watch this Raga-heads.