Music Mock Tests

PG MUSIC (Higher Secondary) Syllabus Overview for WB SLST 2025

This syllabus is designed for students of Class XI-XII preparing for the WB SLST 2025 examination in Music. It covers theoretical knowledge, historical context, practical understanding, and notation skills essential for a comprehensive grasp of Indian and Bengali music traditions.

1. Music History & Texts

• Ancient to Modern Treatises: Study of foundational texts such asNatyasastra andSangita-Parijata to understand the evolution of Indian classical music theory and practice.
• Bengali Musical Evolution: Exploration of regional musical forms includingKavigaan ,Tappa , andRabindra Sangeet , highlighting their historical development and cultural significance.

2. Musical Forms

• Classical Forms: Detailed study ofDhrupad ,Khayal , andThumri styles, focusing on their structure, performance practice, and distinguishing features.
• Folk Songs of Bengal: Understanding the characteristics and social context of Bengali folk music traditions.
• Bengali Composers: Life and contributions of eminent composers such as Kazi Nazrul Islam, Dwijendralal Roy, and Atulprasad Sen.

3. Eminent Personalities

• Study of the biographies and contributions of key music scholars and reformers like Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande and Satyendranath Tagore, emphasizing their role in shaping modern Indian music education and theory.

4. Music Theory & Definitions

• Core Concepts: Understanding fundamental elements such asNada (sound),Swara (musical note),Raga (melodic framework),Tala (rhythmic cycle),Sruti (microtones), andMurchhana (modal shift).
• Technical Terms: Definitions and applications of terms likeVadi (principal note),Samvadi (second principal note),Amsa (important note),Alpatva (rarity),Bahutva (prominence), andLayakari (rhythmic variations).

5. Raga Theory

• Comprehensive study of raga structure including its components and classification.
• Understanding the time theory of ragas and their appropriate performance timings.
• Study ofThata andMelas as systems of raga classification.

6. Scales & Notes

• Exploration of theGrama system and its role in scale formation.
• Detailed study ofMurchhana (modal shifts) and theSruti system (microtonal intervals).
• Distinction betweenSuddha (pure) andVikrita (altered) swaras.

7. Instruments

• Identification, classification, and drawing of classical and folk musical instruments used in Bengal and Indian music traditions.
• Understanding the role and sound production techniques of these instruments.

8. Notation

• Study of notation systems includingAkshara Matrika and Bhatkhande notation.
• Practical transcription exercises covering various musical forms, with special emphasis onRabindra Sangeet .

9. Tala System

• In-depth understanding of the rhythmic framework includingLayakari (tempo variations),Tal-lipi (notation of tala), andPranas (life forces) of tala.
• Study of differentJatis (rhythmic patterns) and their application in performance.

Important Notes:

• Students are encouraged to listen to recordings and attend live performances to contextualize theoretical knowledge.
• Regular practice of notation and transcription will aid in better understanding and examination preparation.
• Focus on the historical and cultural background of musical forms to enhance appreciation and analytical skills.