For any student of the Mridangam , the transition from practicing basic lessons ( Sollukattus ) to performing rhythmic structures is an exciting milestone. Two of the most fundamental concepts you will encounter are the Korvai  and the Mukthayam . While they might seem complex at first, they are essentially the "punctuation marks" of Carnatic music. Let’s break them down into simple terms and learn how to construct your first one. Understanding the Terms Before we pick up th

Tuning a mridangam is one of those quiet, behind-the-scenes skills that can transform your playing. When the instrument is tuned correctly, every stroke sounds crisp, resonant, and full of life. For beginners, the tuning process may feel a little confusing, but with patient listening and a few basic techniques, it becomes a natural and enjoyable part of your practice routine. Every tuning session begins with choosing the right pitch. The right head ( valanthalai ) is tuned t

Hello fellow music learners! If you're studying Carnatic music, particularly percussion instruments like the Mridangam , you've likely encountered the terms Theermanam  or Aridhi . These aren't just fancy words; they are the rhythmic exclamation points that bring an entire composition or a rhythmic sequence to a magnificent, satisfying close. Let's break down this essential concept! What is Theermanam? The Sanskrit term Theermanam  (or Teermanam ) literally translates to "res