Microtones

The Sangeeta-Makaranda mentions the same – These two aspects are described in great detail in “Naarada-Purana.” “Sound produced from ether is known as “un-struck.” In this un-struck sound the Gods delight. The Yogis, the Great Spirits, projecting their minds by an effort of the mind into this un-struck sound depart, attaining Liberation or “Moksha.”

“Struck sound is said to give pleasure, un-struck sound gives “liberation.” But this un-struck sound having no relation with human enjoyment does not interest ordinary men. Not all audible vibrations are musical sounds. The sounds used in music are those whose mutual relations form an image of the basic mathematical laws of the universe. Thus musical sounds reproduce the first creation of the primordial intellect. This creation is at the same time a rhythm and a thought. In correspondence with this the main characteristic of musical sounds, is that, although they form simple physical relations, yet at the same time they convey ideas. (They are expressions.) That is why the sound of music is called “Naada,” intelligible sound, and is said to result from the union of physical breath with the fire of intellect.

The syllable “Naa” means breath; “Da” the fire (of intellect). In musical sound three main elements are usually considered – intensity, pitch and timbre. Intensity is the relative strength of the sound – whether soft or vigorous.

“From sound is evolved ‘Sruti’ microtone. Microtones adorn ‘Swara’. ‘Swaras give shape to ‘Geeta’. ‘Sangeeta’ is the finished product, a fit offering to the Gods. Such is the origin and function of Indian Music,” says Prof. Rangaramanuja Iyengar, in his treatise on “Sangeeta Ratnakara.”

“Sangeetam”, in turn, has an indefinable mysterious charm. It can please, captivate, intoxicate, and hypnotize. The nature and intensity of it’s appeal depend upon its texture, quality and definite objective. On one hand, ‘Sangeetam’ can titillate and stir the emotions. On the other, it can still the mind and irrigate it with a soothing, ethereal calm, so that it functions as a springboard for sublime contemplation touching various levels of consciousness. Thus music is the favorite of all celestial beings.