An essential instrument in India, used in religious traditions, classical music, and many other contexts.
The harmonium can be compared to the accordion in terms of how it works. Air is pumped into an enclosed chamber through a bellows. When a key is pressed, it opens a passage for the air to flow through the corresponding reeds (small metal tongues that vibrate as air passes over them), producing sound.
Its origins are different from what many people imagine. In fact, the instrument originated from a type of organ used in European churches during the Middle Ages, which closely resembled a piano.
The instrument arrived in the Indian subcontinent in the 18th century with the arrival of the British. There, it underwent several modifications: the foot pedals used to pump air were replaced by hand-operated bellows, its legs were removed, and it became an instrument played on the floor. It adapted remarkably well to Indian musical traditions because it is relatively easy to play and provides excellent accompaniment for the human voice.
The seven notes used in Indian classical music are shadja (षड्ज), rishabh (ऋषभ), gandhar (गान्धार), madhyam (मध्यम), pancham (पञ्चम), dhaivat (धैवत), and nishad (निषाद), abbreviated as Sa, Ri or Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, and Ni. These notes are collectively known as sargam, a term derived from the syllables of the first four notes.
Here at Kirtan Seva, students will learn to identify all the parts of the harmonium, recognize musical notes, find the appropriate scale for their vocal range, and play a variety of mantras and melodies.