Music 1310: Theory Fundamentals

Track of the Week

Konnakol duets

Our “takadimi” system for reading rhythm is derived from konnakol, an Indian tradition of vocalized percussion. Below are three konnakol duets. If the speed and complexity don’t knock you out, note the unison sections where the two musicians are singing (or playing) the exact same light-speed rhythms as each other. In the first video, the unison sections begin at 0:40 (very brief), at 2:23 (nearly a minute of unison), and at 4:10 (until the end).

V Shivapriya & BR Somashekar Jois

Here is the same performance, with transcription and accompanied by drums:

Loire & Glen Velez

This couple grew up in Long Island and Mexico, respectively, but have paid their dues in the Indian classical tradition.

Umamahesh, Umashankar, & Selvaganesh

A lighthearted jam.