Learn the concept of Saptak in Rubab according to Indian classical music theory. Explore how the seven notes (Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni) are used to play music on Rubab with the Star Notation system. A complete guide for beginners to master the Saptak on Rubab.
Introduction:
In Indian classical music, a Saptak refers to a set of seven musical notes: Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni. These are the building blocks of any musical piece and are crucial for any Rubab player to understand. Just like English has its alphabets, Indian classical music has these seven notes that form the basis of compositions. On the Rubab, the Saptak spans across the strings and frets, allowing the musician to create melodies. In this article, we dive into the theory behind Saptak and how to play it on the Rubab, especially using the Star Notation system.
What is Saptak in Indian Classical Music?
The term “Saptak” comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Sapta,’ which means seven. In Indian classical music, the Saptak represents the seven notes (Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni), which can be played in a specific sequence on instruments like the Rubab. Each Saptak contains a fixed set of frequencies, and musicians move between these notes to create different melodies.
In Indian classical music, Saptak is divided into three octaves:
- Mandra Saptak: The lower octave, producing deep and lower-pitched sounds.
- Madhya Saptak: The middle octave, typically used for most melodies in human voice range.
- Tara Saptak: The higher octave, which produces sharper, high-pitched sounds.
How is Saptak Represented in Star Notation on Rubab?
On the Rubab, the seven notes of the Saptak can be represented using the Star Notation system. This system simplifies the process of writing and reading notes for beginners and advanced players alike.
Hindustani Name | Star Notation | Urdu Notation | Sanskrit |
---|---|---|---|
Sa | S | سا | शदज |
Re | R | ری | ऋषभ |
Ga | G | گا | गांधार |
Ma | M | ما | मध्यम |
Pa | P | پا | पंचम |
Dha | D | دھا | धैवत |
Ne | N | نی | निषाद |
On the Rubab, these notes can be played across the different strings, and the Star Notation makes it easy for students to identify which fret and string to pluck.
Understanding the Saptak on Rubab’s Fingerboard
The Rubab fingerboard typically accommodates about two full Saptaks, with three main strings used to play these notes. The first string (Ghata) covers the lower notes, the second string (Bam) takes the middle range, and the third string (Zir) extends into higher octaves.
Rubab players must understand how to move between the different octaves (Saptaks) on the instrument, especially when transitioning from one string to another. The Star Notation is especially useful here as it clearly indicates whether the note belongs to the lower, middle, or higher octave.
Types of Saptak in Rubab:
1. Mandra Saptak (मंद्र सप्तक)
The Mandra Saptak represents the lower octave and is usually played on the lower frets of the Rubab’s first string. The sounds produced are deep and resonate well with the Rubab’s hollow body.
2. Madhya Saptak (मध्यम सप्तक)
The Madhya Saptak is the middle octave, which is the most commonly used range for melodies. It represents the normal pitch of the human voice and is perfect for playing simple tunes on the Rubab.
3. Tara Saptak (तारा सप्तक)
Tara Saptak is the higher octave, where the notes are played at a higher pitch. These notes are found on the upper frets of the Rubab and are usually used for more intricate and faster-paced melodies.
How to Practice Sargam (Palta) Using Saptak on Rubab
Before starting to practice Sargam or Palta (the patterns of Sa Re Ga Ma), it is essential to understand how to move through the Saptak on your Rubab. Start by plucking open strings and slowly moving up and down the frets while keeping track of which notes you’re playing using the Star Notation.
When practicing Saptak in the Madhya Saptak range, aim for a smooth transition between notes, using your plucking hand and fingers on the frets to create a continuous sound.
For more guidance on playing Sargam on Rubab, refer to My Rubab v3, which explains Star Notation in detail and offers practical exercises for learning these notes.
Conclusion:
Understanding Saptak is crucial for mastering the Rubab. By learning the notes and their placement on the instrument, you’ll be able to play beautiful melodies across different octaves. The Star Notation system simplifies the process for beginners and experts alike. To explore this topic further and master Sargam and other musical techniques on the Rubab, you can order My Rubab v3 from our shop.
Additional Resources:
- What is Saptak Music?
- What is Saptak in English?
- What is Saptak/Octave?
- Madhya Saptak: The Middle Octave
- Saptak in Indian Classical Music
- Learn to Play Rubab with Star Notation
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