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Introduction-Ektaal Chaturmatrik
Ektaal, of course, is a very well-known tala in the realm of Indian classical music. Rabindranath tagged this Ektal in a new style called Chaturmatrik Ektal. There are 12 beats in its division, and in every part, it has four divisions. Tagore also used this taal in his songs and dances.
Watch a Live Demonstration of Ektaal Chaturmatrik
Structure of Ektaal Chaturmatrik
This taal has 12 beats and 3 divisions. Here’s a breakdown of its beat structure:
| Beats (Matra) | 12 |
|---|---|
| Divisions (Vibhag) | 3 (with a pattern of 4|4|4) |
| Clap (Taali) | 3 (On 1st, 5th, and 9th beats) |
| Wave (Khali) | None |
| First Beat (Sam) | On 1st beat, marked with an 'X' |
| Common Tempo (Laya) | Medium (Madhya) |
Theka for Ektaal Chaturmatrik
We can define the basic theka for Chaturmatrik Ektaal as follows, presented in three rows for clarity:
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhin | Dhin | Na | Na |
| X (Sam) | |||
| 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dhin | Ta | Kat | Ta |
| 2nd Clap | |||
| 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dha | Tirikite | Dhin | Na |
| 3rd Clap | |||
Understanding the Taal Signs
The symbols in Taal notation guide musicians in understanding rhythmic structure:
- Sam (x): Marks the first beat.
- Taali (2, 3): Claps, represented by the corresponding number.
Application of Ektaal Chaturmatrik
Rabindranath Tagore composed songs and dances in Ektal. This rhythmic pattern gives a mold to his unique style of songs, poems, and dances.
Songs of Ektaal Chaturmatrik in Rabindra Sangeet
Here are the songs by Ektaal Chaturmatrik, created by Rabindranath Tagore:
- Nayan Bhasilo Jale
- Shrabano Borisano Par
Conclusion
In Rabindranath Tagore’s music, Ektaal Chaturmatrik 12 Matra is a significant rhythm. And that only adds to the allure and meaning behind his music. This is a rhythm where music lovers will be able to connect and feel the beauty of creation by Rabindranath.
