CBSE Class 12 Carnatic Percussion Syllabus 2026-27

CARNATIC MUSIC – PERCUSSION INSTRUMENTS Subject Code- 033 Class 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.

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

<u>Assessment Design</u>

S.No Component Marks

Α Theory 30

В 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: Madhya, Druta,

Atitam, Anagatam, Pharan, Kalapramanam, Ghumki,

Konnakkol, Choru, Varu, Toppi

1. The candidate should possess knowledge of the fundamental structure, technique and playing of other percussion instruments like Morsing, Tabla, Chenda, Edakka and Gettu Vadyam.

Max Marks: 50

1. Practical

Practical Activities

1. Ability to construct Mohra and Korvai to Khanda jati Ataalam and Triputa tala.
2. An exhibition of accompanying ability
3. Demonstration of the various types and usages of Gumki.
4. Ability to play Tani Avartanam in Misra and Khanda Chapu Talas .

1. Internal Assessment & Project Work:

Max. Marks: 20

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 General Instructions:

Max. Marks: 50

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. Music
6. 7. Questions regarding laya and tala 03 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.