3.30 p.m., Seminar Hall
Some Mathematical Aspects of Laya and Mrudangam Playing
Sangita Kalanidhi Prof. Trichy Sankaran
Professor Emeritus, Senior Scholar, Music Department, York University, Toronto, Canada.
31-01-18

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Abstract

There is perhaps no parallel to the logical and cohesive way in which rhythms are organized in the Indian musical system that is manifested in the art of Carnatic drumming. The elaborate theory and astonishingly complex drumming style of Indian rhythms have become a most interesting and intriguing area of musicological study and performance practice for scholars and musicians from all over the world.

Laya is the practical bedrock of the whole concept of time, and therefore of tala. The mathematical principles governing the time concept and the geometric shapes of rhythmic patterns will be discussed and demonstrated at this lecture demonstration on Jan. 31, 2018. The cadential forms namely mora and korvai will also be highlighted as part of the discussion.