The word "swara" is a musical term that originated from Indian classical music. It refers to the seven foundational notes of the musical scale in Indian music. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), which is a system of phonetic notation based on the sounds of spoken language. The IPA pronunciation of "swara" is /ˈsʋaːɾa/, which includes the distinct sounds of the "s," "w," "a," and "r" letters.
Swara, derived from Sanskrit, is a term used in Indian classical music to describe the seven primary musical notes or tones that constitute the melodic framework of a raga. Also known as the saptak, swara represents the fundamental building blocks of melody within the Indian musical system.
The seven swaras are Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, and Ni. Each swara is represented by a specific syllable as well as a specific pitch. Sa is the tonic or the base note, while the remaining swaras are variations of this note. Re represents the second note, Ga the third, Ma the fourth, Pa the fifth, Dha the sixth, and Ni the seventh. These swaras can be further altered by introducing semi-tones or micro-tones, resulting in numerous musical possibilities.
In Indian classical music, understanding and mastering the swaras is essential for the proper rendition of ragas. Each swara has a distinct character and emotional quality, and the variations and combinations of these swaras create different moods and atmospheres within a raga. The artist's ability to employ the swaras effectively and accurately determines their musical prowess and expression.
Apart from Indian classical music, the concept of swara also finds application in other traditional Indian musical genres such as bhajans, ghazals, and folk music. Swara forms the foundation of the Indian musical tradition, enabling musicians to explore the depths of musical expression and create captivating melodies that resonate with listeners.
The word "swara" has its origin in Sanskrit, an ancient Indo-Aryan language. In Sanskrit, "swara" (स्वर) means "sound", "tone", or "musical note". It is derived from the verbal root "svṛ", which means "to sound" or "to resound". In Indian classical music, "swara" refers to the basic building blocks of a musical composition, such as the notes of a scale or the pitches used in a melody. The term "swara" is widely used in various Indian classical music traditions, including Hindustani and Carnatic music.