Carnatic music and
Hindustani music. Carnatic music is found mainly in the Southern peninsula,
while Hindustani music is found in northern and central India. Both the
traditions have a Vedic origin, but they diverged in the 13th century.
Carnatic music developed gradually from the ancient
musical traditions of South India. There was a long tradition of music in
ancient Tamil literature. The Vedas too had an influence on Carnatic music. In
the
Yajur Veda there is a mention of the instruments called the veena
being used during sacrifices to the gods. From the 13th century Carnatic music began to
develop into current form. The difference with Hindustani music is that it was
not influenced by the Muslim invaders of the north. Instead, Carnatic music
assimilated the ancient traditions of Tamil music.
The other form of
Indian classic music: Hindustani music, developed in North India in the 13th c
and the 14th centuries. It was singing based on notes in music. This was
popular even in the Vedic times, when hymns from the Vedas were sung, and not
chanted. In contrast to Carnatic music, Hindustani music was influenced by many
factors: Hindu music, Vedic philosophy, Persian musicians among the Afghans and
Mughals, as well as religious, folk
and theatre performances.
Hindustani classical
music also influenced a form of devotional music of the Muslim Sufi.
This form of music is called Quawwali, and is gaining popularity
even as simple entertainment. The music is performed by one or two lead
singers, and a number of singers who sing the chorus. They use instruments like
the harmonium, table and dholak.