CBSE Class 10 Carnatic Music (Melodic Instruments) Syllabus 2026-27

CARNATIC MUSIC - MELODIC INSTRUMENTS Subject Code - 032 Class- X (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 Outcomes

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 appreciate Music as a career oriented subject.

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

Assessment Design

S.No Component Marks

Α Theory 30

В Practical 50

C Internal Assessment 20

Curriculum & Examination Structure

Max. Marks: 30

(A)Theory

Time: 02 hours

S.No. Topics

1. Raga classification in General
2. Raga lakshanas of Suddha Saveri, Sriranjani, Kambhoji, Abhogi, Nata, Hindolam and Hari Kambhoji
3. Writing notations of Adi tala Varna in two speeds and Gitams set in Roopaka tala.
4. An outline knowledge of 72 Melakartas
5. Detailed knowledge of musical forms Kriti, JatiSwaramand Varnam.
6. Life sketch and contribution of Lalgudi Jayaram and M.S.Gopala Krishnan,
7. Balachandar & T.R. Mahalingam
8. Basic knowledge of opted instrument

1. Practical Max. Marks: 50
2. No. Topics Marks
3. One Adi tala Varnam in two speeds. 8
4. Harikambhoji
5. At-least one Jati Swaram and one Swarajati 8
6. Explanation of the details of the ragas prescribed. 14
7. Tuning of the instrument opted for 8 50

Max. Marks: 20

1. Internal Assessment and Project work

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