Swarasthanas, the seven core notes of Carnatic music (Sa, Ri, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni), form the bedrock of ragas and compositions. Perfecting these notes ensures clarity, pitch accuracy, and emotional depth in your singing. At Krishna Music School, we emphasize meticulous swara practice to build a strong musical foundation. Follow this step-by-step guide to refine your Swarasthanas like a pro.
Step 1: Understand the Basics of Swarasthanas
Why it matters: Each swara corresponds to a specific frequency, and even minor deviations can distort the raga’s essence.
How to start:
- Learn the full names and short forms of the swaras:
- Sa (Shadja), Ri (Rishabha), Ga (Gandhara), Ma (Madhyama), Pa (Panchama), Dha (Dhaivata), Ni (Nishadha).
- Recognize their positions in the Mayamalavagowla raga (the beginner’s raga for swara practice).
Step 2: Set Up Your Practice Environment
Why it matters: External distractions or poor tools can hinder your progress.
What you’ll need:
- A sruti box (digital or physical) set to the correct pitch (e.g., C or C# for female voices, lower for male voices).
- A quiet, well-lit space free from interruptions.
- A notebook to track daily progress.
Step 3: Warm Up Your Voice
Why it matters: Cold vocal cords are prone to strain and pitch inconsistencies.
How to practice:
- Humming: Gently hum the middle octave (Madhya Sthayi) Sa for 2–3 minutes.
- Lip trills: Roll your lips while moving up and down the swaras to relax your diaphragm.
Step 4: Align with Shruti (Drone)
Why it matters: Staying in tune with the drone is non-negotiable in Carnatic music.
How to practice:
- Turn on the sruti box and match your Sa to its pitch. Hold the note until it blends seamlessly.
- Practice Aakarams (singing “aa” for each swara) while checking against the drone.
Step 5: Master the Middle Octave (Madhya Sthayi)
Why it matters: The middle octave is the safest starting point for beginners.
Exercise:
- Sing ascending and descending swaras slowly: Sa Ri Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni Sa (arohanam) and Sa Ni Dha Pa Ma Ga Ri Sa (avarohanam).
- Use a metronome at 60 BPM to maintain steady rhythm.
- Focus on smooth transitions between notes.
Step 6: Practice Sarali Varisai (Fundamental Sequences)
Why it matters: Sarali Varisai trains your ear and voice to navigate swaras in structured patterns.
How to practice:
- Start with the first Sarali Varisai:
Sa Ri Ga Ma | Pa Da Ni Sa | Sa Ni Da Pa | Ma Ga Ri Sa - Repeat each line 3–5 times, gradually increasing speed.
- Record yourself to identify shaky swaras.
Step 7: Refine Swarasthanas with Janta Varisai
Why it matters: Janta Varisai (double notes) build stamina and precision.
Exercise:
- Sing the pattern Sa Sa Ri Ri Ga Ga Ma Ma | Pa Pa Da Da Ni Ni Sa Sa
- Ensure both notes in each pair are identical in pitch.
Step 8: Experiment with Mandra and Tara Sthayi (Lower & Upper Octaves)
Why it matters: Expanding your range prepares you for advanced compositions.
How to practice:
- Lower octave (Mandra): Sing Sa Pa Sa in descending pitch, focusing on depth.
- Upper octave (Tara): Sing Sa Pa Sa ascending gently—avoid straining!
Step 9: Incorporate Gamakas (Ornamentations)
Why it matters: Gamakas add fluidity, but first, master the plain swaras.
Exercise:
- Once swarasthanas are steady, add subtle oscillations to Ri and Ga in Mayamalavagowla.
- Start slowly, mimicking your guru’s demo recordings.
Step 10: Self-Assessment and Guru Feedback
Why it matters: Objective feedback accelerates improvement.
How to improve:
- Self-check: Use apps like SwaraSagara to analyze pitch accuracy.
- Guru guidance: Share recordings with your Krishna Music School instructor for personalized tips.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rushing through exercises: Speed comes only after clarity.
- Ignoring sruti alignment: Recheck your Sa periodically.
- Practicing fatigued: Limit sessions to 20–30 minutes for beginners.
Why Choose Krishna Music School?
At Krishna Music School, our gurus combine traditional rigor with modern tools to perfect your swarasthanas. From tailored feedback to immersive practice workshops, we ensure every student thrives.
Ready to perfect your swarasthanas? Join our Carnatic vocal course or book a free trial class today!