CBSE Senior Secondary Syllabus 2027 Carnatic Music

FOR CBSE SENIOR SECONDARY SYLLABUS EXAM PREPARATION

CBSE Senior Secondary
Syllabus 2027
Question Paper
EXAM YEAR TYPE DETAILS

CBSE Senior Secondary Syllabus 2027 Question Paper Carnatic Music

Notes · Sample Papers · Previous Year Papers · Mock Tests

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CARNATIC MUSIC - VOCAL
Subject Code – 031
Class- XI-XII (2026-27)

Introduction
The course in Carnatic Melodic Instruments at Secondary and Senior Secondary level, is
being offered for the students, who develop an aptitude and creative ability in the art of
m
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playing melodic instruments and carry forward their capabilities in music through
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education. The syllabus offered in this course envisages the holistic development of the
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students by introducing to them, the intangible values and rich cultural heritage of our
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country, which have been in coexistence with music and art forms practiced through

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ages. The ethos and philosophical concepts that are mirrored in the ancient system of
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Indian music, can be appreciated by the students who learn this course. Along with the
intricacies of music, this course induces a historical consciousness among the students
who wish to pursue higher studies in Music. To some extent this course may even be
considered as a stepping stone to vocational studies

Objectives
● To introduce to students, an understanding of certain principles related to the
origin and development of Indian music through ages and to familiarize students
with the rich history and diversity of Carnatic music.
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● To not only introduce a vital aspect of Indian culture but also develop skills and
qualities that benefit overall growth and personality development.
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● To inculcate curiosity about the formation of grama, moorchana, jaati, and further
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development to the raga system and intricate tala system etc.
● Music is very closely associated with many Science and Arts disciplines. One of
the objectives is to make the students focus on the interdisciplinary approaches in
various musical concepts.
● To develop an aptitude for singing and groominf the students to become
professional singers.
● To motivate students to take up music as a career as well as to open avenues for
different careers in related fields.

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Learning Outcomes
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By learning this course, students;

m ● Will be able to understand the concepts of Carnatic Music s e
s e ● Will be able to understand the ragas and talas in Carnatic music
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● Will be able to learn raga delineation and other creative aspects of Carnatic music
a ● Will be able to assimilate musical concepts with other disciplines
● Will be able to develop a scientific approach in all aspects through the systematic
training opportunities offered during teaching – learning process
● Will be able to appreciate music as a career oriented subject

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Page 1 of 21

CARNATIC MUSIC - VOCAL
Subject Code – 031
Class- XI (2026-27)

Assessment Design

Sr.no Component Marks

A Theory 30

B Practical 50

C Internal Assessment 20

Curriculum & Examination Structure

(A) Theory Max. Marks: 30
Time: 2 Hours

History and Theory of Indian Music

1. An Outline knowledge of the following Lakshana Grantha- Natyasastra and
Chaturdandi Prakasika.

2. Short Life-sketchand contributions of the following composers-
Purandaradasa, Tyagaraja, Muthuswamy Dikshitar,Syama Sastri, and Swati
Tirunal.
3. A Study of the lakshanas of musical forms: Varnam,kriti,Kirtana, Swarajati,

4. Definition and explanation of the following terms: Nada,shruti, vadi:-
samvadi:- vivadi:- Anuvadi:- Amsa, Nyasa, jaati, raga,tala, jati, yati,
Dhatu, Matu
5. Candidate should be able to write in notation of theVarnams in the
prescribed ragas

6. Brief lakshanas of the ragas prescribed. Excluding Dhanyasi, Bhairavi &
Kambhoji.
7. Brief introduction to Manodharma Sangitam
8. Talas Prescribed:- Adi, Roopaka, Mishra & Khanda chapu

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(B) Practical Max. Marks: 50

Practical Activites Marks
1. Ragas prescribed for composition: Sankarabharanam,
Kharaharapriya,Kalyani, Mohanam, Bilahari,Madhyamavati,
14
Arabhi, Anandabhairavi, Kanada, Vasanta & Simhendra
Madhyamam.

2. Varnams (at least 2) in Aditala in two degrees of speed. 10
3. Kriti / Kirtana in the prescribed ragas covering the main talas Adi, 10
Rupakam.
4. Brief alapana of the ragas prescribed. 8
5. Kalpana Swaras in Adi and Rupaka tala rendered in two 8
degrees of speed
Total 50

*Teachers will refer to the distribution of Marks while examining the candidate for
practical examination.

(C) Internal Assessment Max. Marks: 20

1. Project -File (05 Marks)
 Writing in notation the musical compositions of all Ragas prescribed in the
syllabus.
 Identifying the Tala of musical compositions.
 Drawing and labelling the various parts of any percussion instrument.
 Identifying and interviewing any neighborhood Artists.

2. Project work (05 Marks)
Analyse the style of any two contemporary musicians in classical music concert.

3. Periodic practical Test, restricted to three in an Academic year. (10 Marks)
Average of best two tests to be taken for final marks submission. Each test will
examine a candidate for one Raga from the syllabus, one Varnam and a Kriti.

3

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CARNATIC MUSIC - VOCAL
Subject Code – 031
Class- XII (2026-27)

Assessment Design

Sr.no Component Marks

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Theory 30
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B Practical 50
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C
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Curriculum & Examination Structure

(A) Theory Max. Marks: 30
Time: 2 Hours
History and Theory of Indian Music

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1. An Outline Knowledge of the following Lakshana Grandhas Sangita
(i) Saramrita, Sangita Sampradaya Pradarsini, Svaramelakalanidhi, Raga
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Vibodha, Brihaddesi.
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(ii) Short life sketch and contributions of the following: Annamacharya,
Kshetrajna, Swati Tirunal, Gopalakrishna Bharati, Maha Vaidyanatha
Iyer, Patanam Subramanya Iyer. Ramnad Srinivasa Iyenger, Mysore
Vasudevachar.
(iii) A study of musical forms: Kriti, Padam, Javali,Tiruppugazh, Ragamalika.

(iv) Detailed study of Manodharma Sangita
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m 2. Definition and explanation of the following:- Janaka- Janyaragas,
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Bhashanga, Upanga, Varja, Vakra ragas, Arudi,Eduppu, Prabandham,
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Grama, Murchana, Jaati.

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3. Lakshanas of the ragas prescribed in practical activity
a 4. Candidates should be able to write in notation of the kirtana in the
prescribed ragas.
5. Brief description of concert instruments, their construction
techniques of playing.
6. Classification of Musical Instruments in general.

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Page 4 of 21

(A) Practical Max. Marks: 50

1. Ragas prescribed: Pantuvarali, Todi, Nata, Goula, Sri, Saveri,Kedaragaula,
Purvikalyani, Mohanam, Keeravani, Ritigoula .
2. One varnam in Atatala in two degrees of speed.
3. Alapana of the ragas prescribed.
4. Compositions in authentic tradition atleast one each in the prescribe
ragascovering musical forms, kritis, Padams, Javalis,
Tillanas and Raga
malikas.
5. Niraval and kalpana svaras in Adi, Rupaka, and ChapuTalas inonly
firstdegree of speed.
6. One Simple Pallavi (R.T.P) in adi or Khanda Triputa Tala with Trikalamonly.

7. Knowledge of tuning tambura.

*Teachers will refer to the distribution of Marks while examine the candidate for
practical examination.

(B) Internal Assessment Max. Marks: 20

5

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CARNATIC MUSIC - VOCAL
Subject Code – 031
Class- XII (2026-27)

GUIDELINES FOR EVALUATION OF PRACTICALS

Practical

Duration: 30 to 45 minutes Per candidate Max. Marks: 50

General Instructions:
1. Before starting the test, the candidate may be asked to submit a list of what
they have been taught from the syllabus.
2. Examiners are expected to ask questions which have direct relevance with

the course and syllabus.
3. Award of marks should be in accordance with the marking scheme.

Sr.No Value Point
Marks
1. For tuning the Tambura/drone and questions related to it 05
2. One Ata Tala Varnam in two degrees of speed 05
3. One kriti as per the choice of the candidate with all 05
Manodharma aspects
4. One kriti with Manodharma aspects as per the choice of 10
the examiners
5. One post Pallavi item 04
6. Testing the knowledge on prescribed raga lakshanas 04
7. Testing the knowledge of prescribed Talas 04
8. Testing the knowledge of various type of Musical forms 04
learnt
9. Examine the svarajnanam of the candidate. 04
10. Presentation of the Pallavi Learnt. 05
Total 50

Note: 20 marks for internal assessment & Project work. External examiners have to
be arranged for 50 marks for the practical examination.

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Internal Assessment & Project Work Max.Marks 20

Project Work Guidelines:

Minimum four reports and maximum ten reports have to be submitted. Best four will
be considered for Evaluation.
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 Must attend and report live concerts (both vocal and Instrumental)

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 Details of the organization (i.e., notices informing the concert has to be included in
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the project)
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 Presentation of items in order
 Details of each item presented (Whether creative or Manodharma aspects ag
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included)
 Audience response and duration of each item.
 Details about the item in which Tani avartanam was played.
 Photographs of the live concert.

Note:In absence of live classical concerts, students can make report on Devotional
Bhajans, T.V. live shows, etc.

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List of Topics for reference:
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 Tuning of the Tambura/drone. Theacandidate should be asked to tune the Tambura
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g to its structure, tonality, etc., may be asked.
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to his/her pitch. Questions related
 Varnam: One Ata Tala Varnam of the candidate’s choice in two degrees of speed,
either entirely or in part may be asked.
 A kriti of the candidate’s choice, may be asked along with Alapana, Niraval and
Kalpanasvaram.

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Page 7 of 21

CARNATIC MUSIC - MELODIC INSTRUMENTS
Subject Code - 032
Class XI- XII (2026-27)

Introduction
The course in Carnatic Melodic Instruments at Secondary and Senior Secondary
level, is being offered for the students, who develop an aptitude and creative ability in
the art of playing melodic instruments and carry forward their capabilities in music
through education. The syllabus offered in this course envisages the holistic
development of the students by introducing to them, the intangible values and rich
cultural heritage of our country, which have been in coexistence with music and art
forms practiced through ages. The ethos and philosophical concepts that are mirrored
in the ancient system of Indian music, can be appreciated by the students who learn
this course. Along with the intricacies of music, this course induces a historical
consciousness among the students who wish to pursue higher studies in Music. To
some extent this course may even be considered as a stepping stone to vocational
studies.

Objectives
● To introduce to students, an understanding of certain principles related to the
origin and development of Indian music through ages and to familiarize
students with the rich history and diversity of Carnatic music and Melodic
instruments.
● To inculcate curiosity about the formation of grama, moorchana, jaati, and
further development to the raga system and intricate tala system etc.
● Music is very closely associated with many Science and Arts disciplines. One
of the objectives is to make the students focus on the interdisciplinary
approaches in various musical concepts.
● To develop the ability, techniques and skills of playing the instrument opted for,
thus grooming the students to become professional musicians.
● To motivate students to take up melodic instrumental music as a career as well
as to open avenues for different careers in related fields.
● To make students aware and efficient in other subjects through integrated
learning.
● Students not only learn a vital aspect of Indian culture but also develop skills
and qualities that benefit their overall growth and personality development.

Learning Outcome
By learning this course, students:
● Will be able to understand the concepts of Melodic Instruments in Carnatic
music
● Will be able to understand the ragas and talas in Carnatic music
● Will be able to understand the art of playing techniques of melodic instrumental
music and other creative aspects of Carnatic music
● Will be able to assimilate musical concepts with other disciplines
● Will be able to develop a scientific approach in all aspects through the
systematic training opportunities offered during teaching – learning Process.
● Will be able to think music as a career-oriented subject.

1

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CARNATIC MUSIC - MELODIC INSTRUMENTS
Subject Code - 032
Class XI (2026-27)

Assessment Design

S.No Component Marks

A Theory 30

B Practical 50

C Internal Assessment 20

Curriculum & Examination Structure
(A) Theory Max. Marks: 30
Time: 2 Hours

S.No History and Theory of Indian Music

1. An outline knowledge of the following Lakshana
(i)
Grandhas Natyasastra and Chaturdandi Prakasika.
(ii) Short life sketch and contributions of the following: - Veena Dhanammal,
Rajamanikkam Pillai, Tirukkodi Kaval Krishna lyer (violin), Thyagaraja,
Syamasastry, Muthuswamy Deekshitar,

(iii) Brief study of the musical forms: Geetam and its varieties; Varnam –
Swarajati, Kriti/ Kirtana
2. Definition and explanation of the following terms:

Nada, Sruti, Swara, Vadi, Vivadi:,Samvadi, Anuvadi, Amsa , Nyasa, Jaati,
Raga, Tala, Jati, Yati, Suladisapta talas,Nadai, Arohana, Avarohana.
3. Candidates should be able to write in notation of Adi tala varnam in the
prescribed ragas
4. Lakshanas of the ragas prescribed. In addition to Kambhoji & Dhanyasi,
Ananda bhairavi is deleted
5. Talas Prescribed: Adi, Roopaka, Misra Chapu and Khanda Chapu. A brief
study of Suladi Saptatalas.
6. A brief introduction to Manodhama Sangitam

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a (B) Practical ag Max. Marks: 50

S.No Practical Activities Marks
1. Ragas Prescribed: Mayamalavagowla, Sankarabharana, 10
Kharaharapriya, Kalyani, Madhyamavati, Arabhi, Pantuvarali
Kedaragaula, Vasanta,Kanada,.

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2. Varnams (at least two) in Aditala in two degree of speed. 8
o m in each of the prescribed ragas,
Kriti/ cKirtana m .
3.
m . the main Talas Adi, Rupakam and Chapu. 8
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covering
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4. la Brief alapana of the ragas prescribed a
a5.g Technique of playing –Kalpana Swaras in Adi, an Rupaka
10
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talas in two degrees of speed
6. The candidate should be able to produce all the 8
gamakas pertaining to the Chosen instrument. Only
important Gamakas pertaining to opted Instruments are
recommended. Other gamakas are deleted.

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Total 50

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*Teachers will refer to the distribution of marks while examining the candidate for
practical examination.
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(C) Internal Assessment ag Max. Marks: 20

1. Project- File (05 Marks)
 Writing in notation the musical compositions of all Ragas prescribed in the
syllabus.
 Identifying the Tala of Musical compositions.
 Draw and label any one instrument (Melodic).
 Identifying and interviewing neighborhood Artists.
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m  Knowledge about any one of the melodic instrument artist.
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s e 2. Project Work (05 Marks)
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g la Analyse the style of any two contemporary musicians in classical music concert.
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a 3. Periodic practical Test, restricted to three in an academic year. (10 Marks)
Average of best two tests to be taken for final marks submission. Each test will
examine a candidate for one Raga from the syllabus, one Varnam and a Kriti.

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Page 10 of 21

CARNATIC MUSIC - MELODIC INSTRUMENTS
Subject Code - 032
Class XII (2026-27)

Assessment Design

S.No Component Marks

A Theory 30

B Practical 50

C Internal Assessment 20

Curriculum & Examination Structure

(A) Theory Max. Marks: 30
Time: 2 Hours

S.No History and Theory of Indian Music
1. (i) An outline knowledge of the following Lakshana Granthas: Sangita
Saramrita Sangita Sampradaya Pradarsini, Swaramelakalanidhi
and Ragavibhodha, Brihaddesi
(ii) Short life sketch and contributions of the following: Annamacharya,
Swati Tirunal, Kshetrajna, Maha VaidyanathaIyer, Patnam
Subramanya lyer, Ramnad Srinivasa Iyengar Mysore Doraiswamy
Iyengar, Dwaram Venkataswamy, Naidu Karaikkudi Brothers,
Mysore Vasudevachar.
(iii) Brief study of the musical form, Kriti, Tiruppugazh, Javali

(iv) Detailed study of the Manodharma Sangita
2. Definition and explanation of the following: Janaka, Janya system of
Ragas, Bhashanga, Upanga, Varja, VakraRagas, Arudi, Eduppu,
Jati, Grama and Murchchana, Jaati.
3. Only Brief description of the ragas prescribed
4. Candidates should be able to write in notation the kirtana in the ragas
prescribed.
5. The candidate should be able to describe the construction of the
instrument opted for along with the basic techniques of playing.
6. The candidate should have an outline knowledge of the classification of
instruments in general and a brief history of the instrument opted for.

4

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(B) Practical Max. Marks: 50

S.No Practical Activities
1. Ragas Prescribed: Purvikalyani, Todi, Sri, Simhendramadhyamam,
Bhairavi,Shanmukhapriya and Keeravani, Nata, Ritigaula, Saveri.

2. One varnam in Ata tala in two degrees of speed.
3. Brief outline alapana of the ragas prescribed.
4. At least one authentic compositions traditionally rendered in each of the
prescribed ragas, covering the musical formsKirtanas, Kritis, Tillanas.

5. Kalpana Swaras in Adi, Rupaka and Chapu talas in two degrees of
speed.
6. Tala prescribed in Adi (Single) Rupakam,
Misrachapu and Khanda Chapu.

7. Presentation of a simple pallavi in Adi or Khanda Triputatala with Trikalam
only.

* Teachers will refer to the distribution of marks while examining the candidate for
practical examination.

(C) Internal assessment & Project Work Max. Marks: 20

5

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CARNATIC MUSIC - MELODIC INSTRUMENTS
Subject Code - 032
Class XII (2026-27)
GUIDELINES TO THE EXAMINERS FOR EVALUATION OF PRACTICALS

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Practical Max. Marks: 5 0
m per Candidate
Duration: 30 to 45ominutes
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General Instructions:
1. Before sstarting the test, the candidates may be asked to submit a list gofl
g lathey have been taught from the syllabus. a
a
what
2. External Examiners are expected to ask questions which have direct
relevance with the course and syllabus.
3. Award of marks should be in accordance with the marking scheme.

S.No Value Point Marks

1. Tuning of the candidate’s instrument and questions related to it 05

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2. One Ata TalaVarnam in two degrees of speed 05
One kriti as per the choice of m
.
3.
s e the candidate with all 05
Manodharma asked
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4.
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One kriti or two with Manodharma
examiners
asked as per the choice of 10

5. Questions about unique features of respective instruments. 04
6. Testing the knowledge on Raga Lakshanas 04
7. Testing the knowledge of Talas 04
8. Testing the knowledge of Musical forms 04
9. Details regarding different techniques of playing
o m 03
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Presentation of simple Pallavi
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50

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a Note: External examiners have to be arranged for the 50 marks of the Practical
Examination.

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Page 13 of 21

Internal Assessment & Project Work Max. Marks: 20

Project Work Guidelines:
Minimum four reports and maximum ten reports have to be submitted. Best four
will be considered for evaluation.
 Must attend and report live concerts (Both Vocal and Instrumental)
 Details of the organization (i.e., notices informing the concert has to be
included in the project)
 Presentation of Items in order
 Details of each item presented (Whether creative or Manodharma aspects
included)
 Audience response and duration of each item.
 Details about the item in which Taniavartanam was played.
 Photographs of the live concert. (If possible)

Note: In absence of live classical concerts, students can make report on Devotional
Bhajans, T.V. live shows, etc.

List of Topics for Reference:
 Tuning of the instrument: The candidate should be asked to tune the
instrument to his/her pitch. Questions related to its structure, tonality, etc., may
be asked.
 One Ata tala varnam of the candidate’s choice, in two degrees of speed,
eitherentirely or in parts, may be asked.
 A kriti of the candidate’s choice may be asked along with Alapana Niraval, and
Kalpana Swaram.
 A kriti or two (fully or partly) of the examiners’ choice. The Alapana, Niraval,
Kalpana Swarams, etc., may be asked in different ragas from the syllabus.

7

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CARNATIC MUSIC – PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS
Subject Code- 033
Class XI-XII (2026-27)

Introduction
The course in Carnatic music - Percussion Instruments at Secondary and Senior
Secondary level is being offered for the students, who develop an aptitude and creative
ability in the art of Percussion Instruments and carry forward their capabilities in
Percussion music through education. The syllabus offered in this course envisages the
holistic development of the students by introducing to them, the intangible values and rich
cultural heritage of our country, which have been in coexistence with music and art forms
practiced through ages. The ethos and philosophical concepts that are mirrored in the
ancient system of Indian music, can be appreciated by the students who learn this
course. Along with the intricacies as well as cadences of musical rhythm, this course
induces a historical consciousness among the students who wish to pursue higher
studies in Music. To some extent this course may even be considered as a stepping
stone to vocational studies.
Objectives
● To introduce to students, an understanding of certain principles related to the
origin and development of Indian music through ages and to familiarize students
with the rich history and diversity of Carnatic music and Percussion instruments.
● To inculcate curiosity about the formation of Tala and its various Jaatis, angas etc
and further development to the intricate tala system etc.
● Music is very closely associated with many Science and Arts disciplines. One of
the objectives is to make the students focus on the interdisciplinary approaches in
various musical concepts.
● To develop the ability, techniques and skills of playing the instrument opted for,
thus grooming the students to become professional artists of their respective
fields.
● To motivate students to take up percussion instrumental music as a career as well
as to open avenues for different careers in related fields.
● To make students aware and efficient in other subjects through integrated
learning.
● Students not only learn a vital aspect of Indian culture but also develop skills and
qualities that benefit their overall growth and personality development.

Learning Outcomes
By learning this course, students:
● Will be able to understand the concepts of Percussion Instruments in Carnatic
Music
● Will be able to understand the Tala and its various systems in Carnatic music.
● Will be able to learn the art of playing Carnatic percussion instruments, its
techniques and skills
● Will be able to assimilate musical concepts with other disciplines
● Will be able to develop a scientific approach in all aspects, through systematic
training opportunities offered during teaching – learning process
● Will be able to appreciate Percussion music as a career oriented subject.

1

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CARNATIC MUSIC – PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS
Subject Code- 033
Class XI (2026-27)

Assessment Design

S.No Component Marks

A Theory 30
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Practical 50
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C
e m Internal Assessment 20
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(A) Theory
Curriculum & Examination Structure
Max. Marks: 30

Time: 2 Hours

History and Theory of Indian Music

1. (i) An outline knowledge of following Lakshana Granthas with special
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reference to laya and percussion in Natya Sastra, Brihaddesi,

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Sangita, Sampradaya Pradarshini.

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(ii)
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Short life sketch and contributi ons of the following: Patnam

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Subramany Iyer, and Syama Sastry, Tyagaraja.

(iii) Unique contribution of the following luminaries: Narayana Swamy Appa,
Mamunidiya Pillai, Dakshinamurti Pillai and Alagunambi Pillai.

2. Definition and explanation of the following: Nada, Laya, Tala, Jati, Gati,
Suladi Sapta Talas, Karani, Vettu Thattu, Hechchu, Taggu, Mohra,
Korvai, Meettu, Chapu and Arachapu.

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3. The candidates should be able to write in notation of the percussion korvais .co
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in Adi and Rupaka talas.
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Knowledge of construction of the chosen playing percussion instrument.
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a
Basic knowledge of the construction and techniques
candidate should also be able to describe the Kanjira, Tavil,and Ghatam.

6. Tattakarams (or Konnakkol) of the talas learnt. Excluding ChapuTala

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(B) Practical Max. Marks: 50

S.No Practical Activities Marks

1. Ability to play the following talas with elaboration. Adi and 15
Rupakam Talas covering at least two Nadais.

2. Thekas and Mohras in different talas with Teermanam and 15
Korvais.
3. Tuning of the instrument. 5

4. Ability to render orally the sollukattus of the various patterns in 15
Adi, Rupaka tala.
Total 50

* Teachers will refer to the distribution of marks while examining the candidate for
practical examination.

(C) Internal Assessment Max Marks: 20

1. Project- File (05 Marks)
 Prepare Thirumanam, Mohra and Korvai for the Talas prescribed.
 Draw and labelling the Various parts opted instrumental (percussion).
 Identifying and interviewing neighborhood Artists.
 Knowledge about any one percussion artist.

2. Project Work (05 Marks)
Analyse the style of any two contemporary musicians in classical percussion music
concert.

3. Periodic practical Test, restricted to three in an academic year. (10 Marks)
Average of best two tests to be taken for final marks submission. Each test will
examine a candidate for one Raga from the syllabus, one Folk song or Patriotic
song.

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CARNATIC MUSIC – PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS
Subject Code- 033
Class XII (2026-27)

Assessment Design

S.No Component Marks

A Theory 30

B Practical 50

C Internal Assessment 20

Curriculum & Examination Structure

(A) Theory Max. Marks: 30
Time: 2 Hours

History and Theory of Indian Music

1. An outline knowledge of following Lakshana Granthas with
special reference to Tala and percussion in Chaturdandi
Prakashika, Sangita Ratnakara, Ragavibhodha, Svaramela Kalanidhi

2. Short life sketch and contributions of the following luminaries:
Needamangalam Meenakshi Sundaram Pillai, Tanjore Vaidyanatha
Iyer, Palghat Mani Iyer, Umaiyalpuram Kodanda Rama Iyer, Palani
Subramania Pillai, Vilvadri Iyer.
3. Study of the musical forms, Pallavi, Sollukattu, Tillana,Padam and
Javali
4. Definition and explanation of the following: Arudi, Eduppu, Gati-bheda,
Anuloma, Pratiloma, Tisram, Trikalam, Theka, Shadangas, Talas.

5. The candidates should have an outline knowledge of the classification
of Percussion instruments in general and a brief history of the
instrument opted for
6. Technical Terms: Vilamba, Madhya, Druta,
Atitam, Anagatam, Pharan, Kalapramanam, Ghumki,
Konnakkol,Choru, Varu, Toppi
7. The candidate should possess knowledge of the fundamental
structure, technique and playing of
other percussion instruments like Morsing, Tabla, Chenda, Edakka and
Gettu Vadyam.
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(B) Practical Max Marks: 50

Practical Activities
1. Ability to construct Mohra and Korvai to Khanda jati Ataalam and Triputa
tala.
2. An exhibition of accompanying ability
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Ability to play Tani Avartanam in Misra and Khanda Chapu Talas .
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(C) Internal Max. Marks: 20

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gl
Page 19 of 21

CARNATIC MUSIC – PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS
Subject Code- 033
Class XII (2026-27)

GUIDELINES TO THE EXAMINERS FOR EVALUATION OF PRACTICAL

Practical

Duration: 30 to 45 minutes per candidate Max. Marks: 50
General Instructions:
1. Just before starting the test, the students should be asked to submit a list of
what they have been taught from the course.
2. External Examiners are required to ask questions which are directly related
to the syllabus.
3. Marks should be given in accordance with the marking scheme.

Distribution of Marks:
S.No Value Points Marks
1. Tuning of the instrument and questions regarding instrument 05
2. Taniavartanam of choice Tala 06
3. Tala of Examiner’s choice 10
4. Reciting the sollukattu with tala 06
5. Accompanying techniques for Vocal Music and Instrumental 10
Music
6. Accompanying techniques for Trikalam in pallavi singing 10
7. Questions regarding laya and tala 03
TOTAL 50
Note: External examiners have to be arranged for 50 marks of the practical
examination.

Internal Assessment & Project Work Max. Marks: 20
Project Work Guidelines:
Minimum four reports and maximum ten reports have to be submitted. Best four
will be considered for evaluation.
 Must attend and report live concerts (both Vocal and Instrumental).
 Details of the organization (i.e. notices informing the concert has to be
included in the project).
 Presentation of items in order
 Details of each item presented (whether creative or Manodharma aspects
included).
 Audience response and duration of each item.
 Details about the item in which Tani avartanam was played.
 Photographs of the live concert. (If possible)

Note: In absence of live classical concerts, students can make report on
Devotional Bhajans, T.V. live shows,etc.

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List of Topics for Reference:

 The student should be asked to tune the instrument to a particular pitch. He/she
may be asked about the structure and parts of the instrument: problems faced in
maintaining the instrument in good condition during change of weather.
 Choice Tala: The student should be asked to play full-fledged tani avartanam in
a talaof his/her choice.
 Tala of Examiner’s choice: The student should be asked to play tani avartanam
to one or two talas of the examiner’s choice not necessarily the whole course of
the tani avartanam but only selected phrases.
 The candidate may be asked to recite Mohra, Korvai, Tirmanam for different
talas learnt.
 The candidate should be asked to accompany vocal music, instrumental music or
both. The music may be provided either by the examiners themselves or by an artist
specifically engaged for the purpose.
 Questions like (a) differentiation between laya and tala, (b) various Angas of the
talas, (c) Explanation of technical terms like Thekka, Pharan, Gumki, Meettu, Chappu,etc.

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