In the world of Indian classical music, Alankars (also called Alankāras or ornamentations) are foundational vocal exercises that act as the building blocks of melody, precision, and artistry. Whether you’re a budding vocalist or an experienced singer, integrating Alankars into your practice can revolutionize your vocal abilities. At Krishna Music School, we emphasize these exercises as a core part of our curriculum—and here’s why.
In this article, we’ll explore five transformative benefits of practicing Alankars, backed by centuries of musical tradition and modern vocal science.
1. Clarity of Notes: Sharpening Your Sur (Pitch)
Alankars are structured patterns of ascending (aaroh) and descending (avroh) notes that train your voice to hit each swara (musical note) with laser-sharp accuracy. Think of them as vocal “weight training”: just as lifting weights builds muscle strength, repeating Alankars strengthens your control over pitch.
How it works:
- Alankars force you to linger on each note, eliminating muddled transitions.
- Over time, your ear becomes attuned to the subtle differences between shuddh (natural) and komal (flat) notes.
Pro Tip from Krishna Music School:
Start with simple Sā-Rē-Gā-Mā patterns in ragas like Bilawal or Yaman. Use a tanpura or drone app to ensure your notes align perfectly with the shruti (reference pitch).
2. Sweetness & Flexibility: Crafting a Melodious Voice
A rigid voice lacks expression, but Alankars infuse your singing with fluidity and grace. By practicing intricate note combinations, your vocal cords learn to glide effortlessly between highs and lows, creating a smoother, more resonant tone.
The Science:
- Regular Alankar practice expands your vocal range and reduces strain.
- The exercises encourage meend (glides between notes), adding emotional depth to phrases.
Example:
Try singing the Alankar Sā-Rē-Sā, Rē-Gā-Rē, Gā-Mā-Gā… in slow tempo. Focus on making each transition as seamless as a dancer’s movement.
3. Speed & Control: Mastering Layakari (Rhythmic Mastery)
Many singers struggle to balance speed and clarity. Alankars solve this by training you to articulate notes rapidly without sacrificing precision—a skill critical for executing taans (fast melodic runs) in classical and semi-classical genres.
How to Progress:
- Begin at a slow pace (vilambit laya) with a metronome.
- Gradually increase speed (drut laya) while maintaining note purity.
Krishna Music School’s Approach:
Our students practice Alankars in rhythmic cycles (teentaal, ektaal) to internalize timing and build stamina.
4. Understanding Ragas: Unlocking the Soul of Indian Music
Every raga has a unique DNA—its aaroh-avroh, pakad (signature phrase), and emotional essence. Alankars act as a bridge to this deeper understanding.
Why it matters:
- Practicing Alankars in different ragas (e.g., Bhairav for solemnity, Malkauns for mystery) trains your voice to adapt to their distinct rules.
- You’ll learn to identify ragas by their note patterns, a skill prized in both classical and devotional music like Bhajan and Kirtan.
Try This:
Sing a Bhairavi Alankar in the morning and a Yaman Alankar at night to experience how time impacts a raga’s mood.
5. Breath Control: Fueling Long Phrases with Stability
Ever run out of breath mid-phrase? Alankars teach you to regulate airflow, enabling you to sustain longer notes and complex compositions.
Breath Management Techniques:
- Inhale deeply before starting an Alankar.
- Exhale steadily while singing, using your diaphragm (not your throat) to control airflow.
Exercise:
Practice the Mandra Saptak (lower octave) Alankar Sā-Nī-Dhā-Pā-Mā-Gā-Rē-Sā in one breath. Gradually extend the pattern as your lung capacity improves.
Why Krishna Music School Prioritizes Alankars
At our school, Alankars are not just exercises—they’re a philosophy. We’ve seen students:
- Overcome pitch inconsistencies in Bhajan singing.
- Gain confidence to lead Kirtan sessions with crystal-clear diction.
- Excel in advanced raga improvisations.
Conclusion: Your Voice, Transformed
Alankars are the secret weapon of legendary vocalists—and they can be yours too. By dedicating just 15–20 minutes daily to these patterns, you’ll notice:
✔️ Stronger pitch accuracy.
✔️ A richer, more flexible tone.
✔️ Effortless speed and breath control.
✔️ A profound connection to ragas and devotional music.
Ready to Begin?
Join Krishna Music School’s structured courses to master Alankars under expert guidance. Whether you aspire to sing classical ragas, lead Kirtans, or simply refine your voice, we’re here to help you shine.
Visit Krishna Music School to start your journey today!