Time Theory in Relation to Music

Abstract

The effectiveness of Hindustani music is determined by the appropriateness of time (as a part of environment) besides the inborn template, the quality and intensity of training. For centuries, the ragas of Hindustani music have been conventionally assigned a particular time of the day/night or season. There is always a raison d’etre for an established convention or customary practice. The scientific reason behind the psycho-physiological impact of time-based performance/perception of music has been discussed here. Studies have been conducted about the constancy or variability of the psycho-physiological status of humans both intra and interpersonal, during different times of the day/year, in order to assess her/his respective sensitivity towards music. The concept of associating the melodies to the time of day or season is also found in other cultures too like ancient China, Arabia and South East Asia but this system is not so elaborate in these places.