Complex Gamakas

Applying multiple embellishments and ornamentations in phrases

Gamakas (embellishments) are essential to Carnatic music. This guide shows how to notate complex gamaka patterns using the Notations DSL.

Basic Gamaka Syntax

Gamakas are applied using parentheses with the tilde (~) operator:

\cycle("|4|2|2|") \beatDuration(4) S (R~G) M P

Kampitam (Oscillation)

Kampitam creates a vibrating effect on a note:

\cycle("|4|2|2|") \beatDuration(4) S R (G kampitam) M , P D N S.

Jaru (Glide)

Jaru creates a smooth glide between notes:

\cycle("|4|2|2|") \beatDuration(4) S R G M , (P jaru D) N S.

Multiple Gamakas in a Phrase

Combining multiple gamakas in a musical phrase (from Raga Shankarabharanam):

\cycle("|4|2|2|") \beatDuration(4) (S jaru R) (G kampitam) M , (P~D) (N kampitam) S. , (S. jaru D) N P , (M kampitam) G R S

Gamaka Patterns in Different Ragas

Kalyani

\cycle("|4|2|2|") \beatDuration(4) \accidentals(M#) (N jaru S.) (M# kampitam) G , (M#~P) D N , (S. jaru D) N P , M# G (M#~P) D

Todi

\cycle("|4|2|2|") \beatDuration(4) \accidentals(R- G- D-) (S jaru R-) (G- kampitam) M , (P jaru D-) N S. , (R-~G-) M P , (D- kampitam) N S

Advanced: Nested Gamakas

Complex phrases with multiple embellishments on groups of notes:

\cycle("|4|2|2|") \beatDuration(4) ((S R G) kampitam) M , ((P D N) jaru S.) , ((S. D P) kampitam) M , (G R S)

Combining with Speed Changes

Gamakas become more intricate at higher speeds:

\cycle("|4|2|2|") \beatDuration(4) \line("First Speed") S (R~G) M P , (P~D) N S. \line("Second Speed") SR (RG~GM) MP PD , (DN~NS.) S.D PN MP \line("Third Speed") SRG (RGM~GMP) MPD PDN , (DNS.~S.D) S.DP DPN PNM

Practical Tips

Use kampitam for sustained oscillating notes
Use jaru for smooth glides between notes
Use ~ for quick ornamental touches
Study raga-specific gamaka patterns
Listen to masters to understand proper gamaka application
Practice slowly before attempting gamakas at higher speeds