GCSE Music Analysis - Rag Desh - Performed by Chiranji Lal Tanwar
General Points
- This version of Rag Desh is a Bhajan (a Hindu devotional song).
- It is performed by Indian Singer Chiranji Lal Tanwar.
- It was released in 2004.
Instrumentation
Chiranji Lal Tanwar is accompanied by:
1) A Sarod - A plucked string instrument.
2) A Sarangi - A bowed string instrument.
3) A Pakhawaj - A long drum with a head at both ends.
4) A Tabla - A pair of drums, the right drum being smaller and made of wood, the left being larger and made of metal.
5) A pair of Cymbals.
Rhythm
The piece uses an 8 beat tal called the Keherwa Tal (2 + 2 + 2 + 2).
Structure
Alap:
- The Sarangi and then the voice introduce the notes of the rag.
- The tempo is slow and there is no regular beat or pulse.
Bhajan:
- The Tabla comes in and plays the Keherwa Tal (2 + 2 + 2 + 2).
- There is then a sung verse.
- Following the sung verse are short solos for the Sarangi and the Sarod.
- Chiranji Lal Tanwar decorates the important words of the piece with ornaments and mellisma.