Top Karnataka Classical Music Course | JAIN (Deemed-to-be University)

Master of Performing Arts (MPA)

Classical Carnatic Music

Eligibility

A student who has passed a 3-year undergraduate degree (level 5.5, a total of 120 credits) shall be eligible for admission to 2-year MA / MPA programmes.

Preference will be given to candidates who have secured at least 50% marks (45% marks in case of candidates belonging to reserved category) in the qualifying examination.

However, students who have not studied requisite courses from the discipline related to the respective programmes will have to undertake the prescribed bridge course(s).

Overview

The MPA in Music & Dance is designed for students seeking to advance their artistic practice while engaging with theory, research, and performance at a professional level. The curriculum integrates traditional pedagogy with contemporary approaches, fostering both creativity and scholarly depth.

Students benefit from:

Theory and practice in each semester.
Department-specific electives, open electives, and certificate courses.
Training in communication and presentation skills.
Opportunities for impactful performances through productions, ensemble concerts, and individual recitals.
Research methodology training culminating in a Master’s Dissertation in the fourth semester.

Pedagogy of the Programme

Balanced Approach: Every semester blends theory with practical training.
Specialisations & Electives: Students select electives in music and dance, alongside open electives and certificate courses.
Performance Training: Classroom productions, music productions, ensemble concerts, and studio lessons prepare students for stage and industry.
Research & Analysis: Structured exposure to research methods enhances analytical writing, critical thinking, and academic publishing.
Soft Skills: Communication and presentation training strengthens confidence and professional readiness.

Alignment with National Education Policy (NEP) 2020

The programme reflects the NEP 2020 vision of inclusive, holistic, and flexible education. JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), known for academic excellence and innovation, has strategically embedded NEP principles through transdisciplinary learning, project-centric pedagogy, and a focus on research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Apply Now Brochure

Program code: 041

Course Commencement : Sep 2026

enquiry.pg@jainuniversity.ac.in

Study Campus

6th Phase, 319, 25th Main Rd, KR Layout,
6th Phase J. P. Nagar,
Bengaluru, Karnataka 560078
P: 080 4343 0400

Admissions Office

JAIN Knowledge Campus
#44/4, District Fund Road
Jayanagar 9th Block Campus
Bangalore - 5600 69
P : +91 73376 13222
P : +91 76763 86870

Curriculum Structure

Saṅgīta Śāstra I
History of Indian Music I
Introduction to Performing Arts
Academic Research in Performing Arts
Varnas
Manodharma Saṅgīta I
Guccha Compositions A
Guccha Compositions B
Introduction to Indian Knowledge System
Transdisciplinary Project-Centric Learning I

Saṅgīta Śāstra II
History of Indian Music II
Introduction to Mṛdaṅga
Manodharma Saṅgīta II
Viśeṣa Racanegalu A
Viśeṣa Racanegalu B
Laya Foundations
Saṃśodhana (Research Publication)
Transdisciplinary Project-Centric Learning I

Saṅgīta Śāstra III
History of Indian Music III
Music Production
Manodharma Saṅgīta III
Mṛdaṅga Concepts
Konakkol Concepts
Rāga Tāna Pallavi I A
Rāga Tāna Pallavi I B
Introduction to Music for Dance
Open Elective II
Internship
Transdisciplinary Project-Centric Learning II

Saṅgīta Śāstra IV
Introduction to Art Entrepreneurship
Concert
Manodharma Saṅgīta IV
Saṅgīta Saṃyojana A
Saṅgīta Saṃyojana B
Rāga Tāna Pallavi II A
Rāga Tāna Pallavi II B
Dissertation
Transdisciplinary Project-Centric Learning II

Course Highlights

Integration of traditional techniques and modern technology for holistic learning.
Masterclasses and lectures by experts in music and dance.
Opportunities to initiate student-led productions and participate in conferences, workshops, and concerts.
Development of:
- Deep knowledge of Indian musicology.
- Understanding of cultural and historical contexts across allied arts.
- Ability to present full concerts and choreographic works.
- Competence in creative music production and composition.
- Critical analysis and review of performances.
- Expertise in stagecraft, costume, lighting, and production management.
Mentorship by leading performers, choreographers, and scholars.
Research-driven projects that integrate dance and music with other disciplines.
Exploration of ethical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of performance.

Career Enhancement Programs

Students gain access to Career Enhancement Programmes that expand professional horizons:

Industry-linked workshops and mentorship.
Cross-cultural exposure through projects and collaborations.
Training in entrepreneurship, production, and arts management.
Hands-on experience with real-world events, stagecraft, and community outreach.

These initiatives prepare graduates to thrive in both artistic and allied creative industries.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the programme may pursue roles such as:

FAQ's

Who is the father of Carnatic Music?

Purandara Dasa is known as the "father of Carnatic music". He was a composer, vocalist, and philosopher who lived in present-day Karnataka, India.

What does MPA mean in Music?

MPA stands for Master of Performing Arts, a 2-year postgraduate degree programme specialising in the field of Music.

Who is the queen of Carnatic Music?

Madurai Shanmukhavadivu Subbulakshmi is known as the "Queen of Carnatic Music". She was an Indian classical singer who was the first musician to receive the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour.

What are the 7 Talas?

The seven talas in Carnatic Music are the seven families of talas in the Sapta Tala system. Each family has five variations, making a total of 35 talas. The seven talas in Carnatic Music are Triputa, Dhruva, Ata, Rupaka, Matya, Jhampa, and Eka.