Music now has universal appeal despite coming from different languages, cultures, and traditions. Modern music is also known as 20th-century music. In this article, we will know about the concept and emergence of modern music which is essential for UPSC exam preparation.

Evolution of Modern Music

• In 1834, Captain A. N. Willard 1834 published an important treatise on Indian music, based on observation of contemporary performances
• British contribution towards Indian classical music includes work like Musical Modes of India by Sir Wilson Jones.
• In 1901 Gandharva Mahavidyalaya was set up in Lahore to reduce the influence of gharanas over Indian classical music and to expand its base.
• An All-India music academy was established in 1919 for research, study, and further development in the field of music.
• It started in the 1950s due to the efforts of Pt. Ravi Shankar, when Indian classical music became international.
• Various Indian musicians have since made journeys to the west such as Ali Akbar Khan, Amjad Ali Khan, Nikhil Banerjee, Zakir Hussain, etc.

Globalization of Indian Music

Pt. Ravi Shankar’s association with George Harrison of The Beatles helped in popularising Indian music in the west. The Beatles included sitar (and tabla) in some of their songs, for example the sitar melody in Norwegian Wood. Indian music was further propagated due to the globalization of the Indian film industry in the 20th century.

Some of the Modern Developments in Music

Owing to the developments and evolution of music various institutions have provided patronage in order for music to flourish. These include:

Gandharva Mahavidyalaya

It was set up in 1901 by VD Paluskar for the spread of Indian classical music and dance among future generations. It was relocated from Mumbai to Lahore in 1915 and has since focused on Hindustani and Classical forms of music.

Prayag Sangeet Samiti

It was set up in Prayagraj in 1926 for training in Hindustani Classical music.

Sangeet Natak Akademi

It was set up in 1952 as the first national academy for performing arts. It focuses on the development of dance, drama, music as well as the promotion of the intangible heritage of India.

Marris College of Music

It was set up in 1926 by Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande to promote the spread on Indian classical music.

SPIC MACAY

It was established as a musical community in 1977 by Kiran Seth. It was started as a platform to showcase Indian tradition and culture to the masses.

Advantages of Globalization of Modern Music

• Global recognition to Indian classical music traditions
• Increased opportunities for traditional artists
• Enrichment of traditional music

Disadvantages of Globalization of Modern Music

• Greater westernization of music has led to neglect of traditional Indian music
• Decreased availability of resources to traditional artists due to poor marketing, etc
• Increased threat to the livelihood of local artists
• Preference for modern western music in popular entertainment channels.

Conclusion

Although modernization of music is an essential part of the globalized world, care must also be taken so that classical artists and traditional Indian music is not lost. Adequate livelihood opportunities should be created for traditional artists, in order to carry forward their art for future generations.

FAQs

Question. What is modern music in the context of art and culture?

Question. How did modern art evolve?

Question. What is the relationship between modern music and modern art?

Question. How did Indian culture influence modern art and music?

Question. What role does modern music and art play in today’s society?

MCQs

1. What is one key characteristic of modern art?

A) Strict adherence to realism

B) Focus on abstract forms and individual perception

C) Emphasis on religious themes

D) Use of only traditional materials

2. Which musical genre emerged in the early 20th century and became a hallmark of modern music?

A) Jazz

B) Classical

C) Baroque

D) Folk

3. Which modern art movement is known for its use of geometric shapes and abstract forms?

A) Cubism

B) Expressionism

C) Realism

D) Surrealism

4. Who is a well-known figure in modern Indian music who has blended traditional Indian music with Western influences?

A) Raghavendra Rao

B) A.R. Rahman

C) Ustad Zakir Hussain

D) Ravi Shankar

5. Which of the following was a significant influence on modern art in India?

A) Mughal miniature painting

B) European classical realism

C) Indian folk art

D) Greek sculpture

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1: Discuss the evolution of modern art and music in India.

Answer: Modern art and music in India have undergone significant transformations, influenced by both Indian traditions and Western movements. In art, the transition from traditional Mughal and Rajput painting to modern forms began in the late 19th century with artists like Raja Ravi Varma, who brought Indian mythology to canvas. As modernism grew in the West, Indian artists began experimenting with abstraction, cubism, and surrealism. Similarly, modern music in India evolved with the blending of classical Indian music with Western influences, as seen in the works of artists like A.R. Rahman and Ravi Shankar, who integrated Western orchestration with classical Indian ragas and rhythms. Both art forms reflect the changing dynamics of Indian society and are a reflection of its cultural, social, and political developments.

Q2: Evaluate the impact of Western modernism on Indian music and art.

Answer: Western modernism had a profound impact on Indian music and art, particularly in the early 20th century. In visual arts, movements such as Impressionism, Cubism, and Abstract Expressionism influenced Indian artists, leading them to explore new techniques and forms. This is evident in the works of artists like Amrita Sher-Gil and M.F. Husain, who integrated Western artistic styles while retaining elements of Indian culture. In music, Western classical music, jazz, and pop music influenced the development of modern Indian music, leading to a fusion of classical Indian sounds with Western genres. This blending created new musical expressions and was crucial in shaping the modern music scene in India, particularly in film music and contemporary performances.

Q3: Analyze the role of modern music and art in the expression of socio-political issues in contemporary India.

Answer: Modern music and art have played a vital role in expressing socio-political issues in contemporary India. In the world of music, genres like protest songs, independent music, and contemporary Bollywood music have addressed issues like poverty, inequality, gender discrimination, and political corruption. Artists use music as a platform to speak about societal challenges, as seen in the works of musicians like Gurdas Maan, Kabir Café, and other indie music artists. Similarly, modern art in India has been used to highlight social and political issues such as communalism, environmental degradation, and the struggles of marginalized communities. Artists like Bhupen Khakhar and Nalini Malani have used their artwork to comment on socio-political realities, creating a critical dialogue through visual culture. Both art and music continue to be essential mediums for reflecting and challenging societal norms.

Previous Year Questions on  Modern Music

1. UPSC CSE 2017

Question: "Examine the impact of modern art movements such as Cubism and Abstract Expressionism on Indian art."

Answer: Modern art movements like Cubism and Abstract Expressionism significantly influenced Indian art by encouraging artists to break free from traditional forms and explore new techniques of abstraction and symbolism. Indian artists like M.F. Husain and S.H. Raza, influenced by Western movements, began incorporating modernist styles into their works while retaining cultural elements. These movements promoted individual expression and abstract representation, which became integral to the evolution of modern Indian art. The fusion of Indian and Western styles led to the development of a distinct modern art identity in India.

2. UPSC CSE 2020

Question: "Discuss the role of modern music and art in shaping the cultural landscape of India in the 20th century."

Answer: Modern music and art played a transformative role in shaping the cultural landscape of India in the 20th century. In music, the blending of traditional Indian classical music with Western genres like jazz, blues, and pop led to the creation of a unique musical landscape, influencing Bollywood music and independent music scenes. Similarly, modern art movements in India, from the Bengal School to contemporary artists, reshaped the visual art world by incorporating new styles and techniques, reflecting the social and political changes of the time. This fusion of tradition and modernity in both art and music continues to influence Indian culture today.