Solkattu Manual: An Introduction to the Rhythmic Language of South Indian Music

Solkattu, the spoken rhythms and patterns of hand-clapping used by all musicians and dancers in the classical traditions of South India, is a subject of worldwide interest - but until now there has not been a textbook for students new to the practice. Designed especially for classroom use in a Western setting, and featuring nearly ninety examples in graphical notation designed by the author, the manual begins with rudimentary lessons in the simplest South Indian tala, or metric cycle, and proceeds step-by-step into more challenging material.The book then provides lessons in the eight-beat adi tala, arranged so that by the end, students will have learned a full percussion piece they can perform as an ensemble. "Solkattu Manual" includes two DVDs featuring performances of all 150 lessons, and full performances of all three of the outlined small-ensemble pieces. Ideal for courses in world music and general musicianship, and for independent study, "Solkattu Manual" makes the complex rhythms of South Indian music and dance accessible to beginners, enriches the understanding of those already familiar, and provides a unique aid for teachers. The book lies flat for easy use.It offers hands-on introduction to South Indian spoken rhythm.