Oriental Music - Grade 7

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of Oriental Music, fostering an appreciation for musical heritage and developing practical skills in singing and playing instruments. The curriculum emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to explore and engage actively with the subject matter.

1. Fundamentals, Techniques, and Principles of Music

This section covers the foundational elements of music theory and practice:

• Saptak: Students learn the three saptak (octaves) of notes, including the placement of 12 notes within these octaves. They practice singing the madyaswarasapthak (middle octave) and engage in voice training etudes.
• Swara: Students learn to differentiate and sing both suddha (natural) and komala (flat) swaras. They practice exercises involving songs that incorporate both types of swaras.
• Thal and Laya: Students are introduced to the concepts of thal (tune) and laya (tempo). They explore rhythmic divisions using 2, 3, and 4 mathras (beats) and learn the 6/8 rhythm.

2. Nature of Musical Instruments and Playing Abilities

This section focuses on developing instrumental skills:

• Violin Family: Students learn about the violin family, including the nature of the instrument, location of notes, and basic playing techniques.
• Flute: Students learn about the flute, including the nature of the instrument, location of notes, and basic playing techniques.
• Student's Choice Instrument: Students can choose an instrument and learn about its nature, location of notes, and basic playing techniques.
• Keyboard Playing: Students are introduced to keyboard playing.

3. Appreciation of Music and Sentimental Events

This section aims to cultivate an appreciation for music and its connection to emotions:

• Listening and Discussion: Students listen to tunes played on selected instruments and engage in discussions about the strengths and qualities of the songs.
• Appreciation and Evaluation: Students develop their ability to appreciate and evaluate the tunes of songs.

4. Cultural Heritage and Indigenous Folk Music

This section explores the cultural significance of folk music:

• Lullabies: Students learn and sing lullabies.
• Thunsarana Gee: Students learn and sing Thunsarana gee (invocation songs).
• Raban Gee: Students learn and sing Raban gee (songs associated with the Raban, a traditional drum), along with exploring the cultural information related to these songs.

5. Applied Music and Drama

This section introduces students to the application of music in dramatic contexts:

• Kolam Style: Students learn and sing songs in the Kolam style, a traditional Sri Lankan folk drama.
• Simple Performance: Students participate in simple performances of Kolam songs.

6. Creative Work in Music

This section encourages creative expression through music:

• Creating Lyrics: Students learn the importance of lyrics in songwriting and practice creating their own lyrics.
• Creating Songs: Students compose their own songs.

7. Oriental Notation and Universal Works in Music

This section introduces students to musical notation:

• Samagraha, Avagraha, Vishamagraha, Anaghathathmaka Notations: Students learn about these different types of notations in Oriental Music, using pel gee (songs with lyrics based on solfege syllables) as a learning tool.

8. Technical Instruments and Physical Foundation of Music

This section is mentioned in the syllabus but lacks specific content details. It aims to enhance students' understanding of technical aspects of music and improve their performance abilities.