Music of Nepal
History
Music has been an integral part of Nepalese culture and society for centuries. The history of Nepalese music can be traced back to the 4th century AD, during the time of the Licchavi dynasty. The music of this period was largely influenced by the cultural exchanges with neighboring regions, such as Tibet and India.
The Malla period, from the 12th to the 18th century, was a golden age for music in Nepal. The kings of this era were great patrons of the arts and encouraged the development of music. It was during this time that many of the traditional Nepalese musical genres and instruments were developed.
Genres
Nepalese music can be broadly divided into two genres: classical and folk.
Classical Music
Classical music in Nepal is based on the raga system, similar to the classical music of North India. The two main forms of classical music in Nepal are Dhrupad and Khyal. Dhrupad is an ancient style of singing, characterized by its slow tempo and meditative nature. Khyal, on the other hand, is a more modern style that allows for greater improvisation.
Folk Music
Folk music is an integral part of Nepalese culture. Each ethnic group in Nepal has its own unique musical tradition and style. The Tamang, for example, have a rich tradition of song and dance, while the Newar people are known for their complex drumming ensembles.
Instruments
Nepalese music is characterized by a wide variety of musical instruments, many of which are unique to the country. These can be broadly categorized into percussion, string, and wind instruments.
Percussion Instruments
Percussion instruments are the most commonly used in Nepalese music. The Madal, a hand drum made of wood, is the most popular percussion instrument. Other percussion instruments include the Dholak, a two-headed drum, and the Tabla, a pair of small drums.
String Instruments
String instruments in Nepalese music include the Sarangi, a bowed string instrument, and the Tungna, a plucked string instrument. The Sarangi is often used to accompany folk songs, while the Tungna is used in both folk and classical music.
Wind Instruments
Wind instruments in Nepalese music include the Bansuri, a bamboo flute, and the Shehnai, a double-reed instrument. The Bansuri is often used in classical music, while the Shehnai is used in both classical and folk music.
Modern Music
Modern music in Nepal is a blend of traditional elements with Western styles. Pop, rock, and hip-hop are popular genres, often incorporating elements of Nepalese folk and classical music. Nepalese music has also been influenced by Bollywood music from India.
Impact and Influence
The music of Nepal has had a significant impact on the cultural identity of the country. It has also influenced and been influenced by the music of neighboring regions, such as Tibet and India.