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{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=August 2019}}
In [[Hindustani classical music]], the '''jor''' (Hindi: जोर, {{IPA-hns|dʒoːr|}}; also spelt '''jod''' and '''jhor''') is a formal section of composition in the long elaboration (''[[alap]]'') of a [[raga]] that forms the beginning of a performance. It comes after ''[[alap]]'' and precedes ''[[jhala]]'', the climax.<ref name="SorrellNarayan1980">{{cite book|author1=Neil Sorrell|author2=Ram Narayan|title=Indian Music in Performance: A Practical Introduction|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=jNhRAQAAIAAJ&pg=PA110|accessdate=14 July 2013|year=1980|publisher=Manchester University Press|isbn=978-0-7190-0756-9|pages=110–}}</ref> Jor is the instrumental equivalent of '''nomtom''' in the [[dhrupad]] vocal style of [[music of India|Indian music]]. Both have a simple [[Pulse (music)|pulse]] but no well-defined [[Tala (music)|rhythmic cycle]].<ref>Kamien, Roger, and Anita Kamien. Music: an Appreciation. McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.</ref>
In [[Hindustani classical music]], the '''jor''' (Hindi: जोर, {{IPA-hns|dʒoːr|}}; also spelt '''jod''' and '''jhor''') is a formal section of composition in the long elaboration (''[[alap]]'') of a [[raga]] that forms the beginning of a performance. It comes after ''[[alap]]'' and precedes ''[[jhala]]'', the climax.<ref name="SorrellNarayan1980">{{Cite book|last=Sorrell|first=Neil|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/6086559|title=Indian music in performance : a practical introduction|date=1980|publisher=New York University Press|others=Ram Narayan|isbn=0-8147-7815-1|location=New York|pages=109|oclc=6086559}}</ref> Jor is the instrumental equivalent of '''nomtom''' in the [[dhrupad]] vocal style of [[music of India|Indian music]]. Both have a simple [[Pulse (music)|pulse]] but no well-defined [[Tala (music)|rhythmic cycle]].<ref>Kamien, Roger, and Anita Kamien. Music: an Appreciation. McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.</ref>


{{Infobox music genre
{{Infobox music genre
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== Origin and Terminology ==
== Origin and Terminology ==


Jor (or Jod) is an instrumental interpretation of nomtom which is an introductory style that is characterised by its modest rhythm and lack of rhythmic cycle (also known as tal).<ref name=":0">Lavezzoli. The Dawn of Indian Music in the West. Bloomsbury Academic, 2007.</ref> Jor is present in most Hindustani classical music through the raga, as an articulate and rapid pulse that the alap transitions into, followed by Jhala.<ref name=":1">Napier. Structure and Proportion in Hindustani Alap. University of New South Wales, 2019. pp. 56.</ref>
'''Jor''' (or '''Jod''') is an instrumental interpretation of nomtom which is an introductory style that is characterised by its modest rhythm and lack of rhythmic cycle (also known as [[Tal]]).<ref name=":0">Lavezzoli. The Dawn of Indian Music in the West. Bloomsbury Academic, 2007.</ref> '''Jor''' is present in most Hindustani classical music through the [[raga]], as an articulate and rapid pulse that the [[alap]] transitions into, followed by [[jhala]].<ref name=":1">Napier. Structure and Proportion in Hindustani Alap. University of New South Wales, 2019. pp. 56.</ref>
== In Hindustani Music ==
== In Hindustani Music ==


Indian classical music is divided into 2 sections: Hindustani and Carnatic Music. Both musical styles inhabit the core traditions of India culture, and are portrayed as one of the most prestigious types of music.  These two traditional types of music are both defined by the Sanskrit term "sangita" which refers to the fusion of all the elements, of song, instrumental music and dance.<ref name="SorrellNarayan1980" /> Hindustani Music is primarily found in the Northern areas of India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. The oral nature of North Indian Music allows for expressive communication between the performers and audience.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Rohrmeier|first=Martin|last2=Widdess|first2=Richard|date=2017-07|title=Incidental Learning of Melodic Structure of North Indian Music|url=http://doi.wiley.com/10.1111/cogs.12404|journal=Cognitive Science|language=en|volume=41|issue=5|pages=1299–1327|doi=10.1111/cogs.12404}}</ref> Raga and Dhrupad are the two main forms of Hindustani classical music and form the prominent structure of Indian Classical Music.<ref>Will, U., Clayton, M., Wertheim, I., Leante, L., Berg, E. (2014). Pulse and Entrainment to Non-Isochronous Auditory Stimuli: The Case of North Indian Alap. PLoS ONE. p.2.</ref> The musical section of Jor is prominent in Raga and follows the cyclical and linear progression of Hindustani music.<ref>Erdman, J. (1982). The Empty Beat: Khali As A Sign of Time. University of Chicago. pp 1.</ref>
Indian classical music is divided into 2 sections: [[Hindustani classical music|Hindustani]] and [[Carnatic music|Carnatic]] Music. Both musical styles inhabit the core traditions of [[India]] culture, and are portrayed as one of the most prestigious types of music.  These two traditional types of music are both defined by the [[Sanskrit]] term "[[sangita]]" which refers to the fusion of all the elements, of song, instrumental music and dance.<ref name="SorrellNarayan1980" /> [[Hindustani classical music|Hindustani]] Music is primarily found in the Northern areas of [[India]], [[Bangladesh]] and [[Pakistan]]. The oral nature of North Indian Music allows for expressive communication between the performers and audience.<ref name=":7">{{Cite journal|last=Rohrmeier|first=Martin|last2=Widdess|first2=Richard|date=2017-07|title=Incidental Learning of Melodic Structure of North Indian Music|url=http://doi.wiley.com/10.1111/cogs.12404|journal=Cognitive Science|language=en|volume=41|issue=5|pages=1299–1327|doi=10.1111/cogs.12404}}</ref> [[Raga]] and [[Dhrupad]] are the two main forms of Hindustani classical music and form the prominent structure of Indian Classical Music.<ref>Will, U., Clayton, M., Wertheim, I., Leante, L., Berg, E. (2014). Pulse and Entrainment to Non-Isochronous Auditory Stimuli: The Case of North Indian Alap. PLoS ONE. p.2.</ref> The musical section of Jor is prominent in Raga and follows the cyclical and linear progression of Hindustani music.<ref>Erdman, J. (1982). The Empty Beat: Khali As A Sign of Time. University of Chicago. pp 1.</ref>


=== Raga ===
=== Raga ===


The concept of Raga (Rag) can be divided into 5 different components as proposed by Nazir Ali Jairazbhoy:<ref name=":2" />
The concept of [[Raga]] (Rag) can be divided into 5 different components as proposed by Nazir Ali Jairazbhoy:<ref name=":2">Jairazbhoy, N.A. (1971). The Rags of North Indian Music: Their Structure and Evolution. Faber and Faber Limited. pp. 27.</ref>


1)    Scale
1)    [[Scale (music)|Scale]]


2)    Ascending and descending line
2)    Ascending and descending line
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4)    Emphasised notes and register
4)    Emphasised notes and register


5)    Intonation and obligatory embellishments
5)    Intonation and obligatory [[embellishments]]


Raga is derived from Sanskrit, a classical language from South Asia, and is defined as "the act of colouring and dyeing."<ref name=":2" /> Amongst Indian Classical Music, raga is identified as the basic melodic framework and acts as a communication medium for two musicians. In the Raga there is a constant interplay between what is learnt from the performance, what is known and what is continued through improvisation.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Sanyal|first=Ritwik|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/51985008|title=Dhrupad : tradition and performance in Indian music|date=2004|publisher=Ashgate|others=Richard Widdess|isbn=0-7546-0379-2|location=Aldershot, Hants, England|oclc=51985008}}</ref> A raga utilises a particular scale and combines it with prototypical melodic patterns, creating combinations of tonic intervals which evoke unique emotions.<ref name=":1" />
Raga is derived from Sanskrit, a classical language from South Asia, and is defined as "the act of colouring and dyeing."<ref name=":2" /> Amongst Indian Classical Music, raga is identified as the basic melodic framework and acts as a communication medium for two [[Musician|musicians]]. In the Raga there is a constant interplay between what is learnt from the performance, what is known and what is continued through [[improvisation]].<ref>{{Cite book|last=Sanyal|first=Ritwik|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/51985008|title=Dhrupad : tradition and performance in Indian music|date=2004|publisher=Ashgate|others=Richard Widdess|isbn=0-7546-0379-2|location=Aldershot, Hants, England|oclc=51985008}}</ref> A raga utilises a particular scale and combines it with prototypical [[Melodic pattern|melodic patterns]], creating combinations of tonic [[Interval (music)|intervals]] which evoke unique emotions.<ref name=":1" />


A typical raga composition is shown as sequences of events, starting with the alap and followed by the gat. A performance of raga depends on the balance between the melody and the way the audience and performer engage with the material.<ref name=":3">{{Cite journal|last=McNeil|first=Adrian|date=2017-01-02|title=Seed ideas and creativity in Hindustani raga music: beyond the composition–improvisation dialectic|url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17411912.2017.1304230|journal=Ethnomusicology Forum|language=en|volume=26|issue=1|pages=116–132|doi=10.1080/17411912.2017.1304230|issn=1741-1912}}</ref> The Jor is situated between the Alap and Jhala, commonly known as the instrumental Alap-Jor-Jhala-Gat format. This framework details the unmetered instrumental structure of the Raga, which is performed with a regular pulse and over a wider melodic range.<ref name=":4">{{Cite book|last=Clayton|first=Martin|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/779875847|title=Time in Indian music : rhythm, metre, and form in North Indian råag performance|date=2008|publisher=Oxford University Press|isbn=0-19-985193-X|location=New York|oclc=779875847}}</ref> This format is the foundation of Dhrupad as was introduced into the West in the 20<sup>th</sup> Century.<ref name=":5" />
A typical raga [[composition]] is shown as sequences of events, starting with the [[alap]] and followed by the gat. A performance of raga depends on the balance between the melody and the way the audience and performer engage with the material.<ref name=":3">{{Cite journal|last=McNeil|first=Adrian|date=2017-01-02|title=Seed ideas and creativity in Hindustani raga music: beyond the composition–improvisation dialectic|url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17411912.2017.1304230|journal=Ethnomusicology Forum|language=en|volume=26|issue=1|pages=116–132|doi=10.1080/17411912.2017.1304230|issn=1741-1912}}</ref> The Jor is situated between the Alap and [[Jhala]], commonly known as the instrumental Alap-Jor-Jhala-Gat format. This framework details the unmetered instrumental structure of the Raga, which is performed with a regular pulse and over a wider melodic range.<ref name=":4">{{Cite book|last=Clayton|first=Martin|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/779875847|title=Time in Indian music : rhythm, metre, and form in North Indian råag performance|date=2008|publisher=Oxford University Press|isbn=0-19-985193-X|location=New York|oclc=779875847}}</ref> This format is the foundation of Dhrupad as was introduced into the West in the [[20th century|20<sup>th</sup> Century]].<ref name=":5">Erdman. The Empty Beat: Khali As A Sign of Time. University of Chicago, 1982. pp. 24.</ref>
[[File:Pt. Vinod Kumar Dwivedi at Dhrupad Mela.jpg|thumb|Vinod Kumar Dwivedi preforming Dhrupad]]

In a full performance, the Raga can be spilt into three sections, the alap, jor and jhala. Jor and Alap acts as equivalents to one another, and the Jhala is a fast and unaccompanied part where the Jor is accelerated to reach a peak/climax.<ref name=":4" /> Within the Jor and Jhala, a pulse can be heard throughout.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Erdman|first=Joan L.|last2=Semiotic Society of American, in cooperation with the Philosophy Documentation Center|date=1982|title=The Empty Beat: Khālī as a Sign of Time|url=http://www.pdcnet.org/oom/service?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=&rft.imuse_id=ajs_1982_0001_0004_0021_0045&svc_id=info:www.pdcnet.org/collection|journal=The American Journal of Semiotics|volume=1|issue=4|pages=21–45|doi=10.5840/ajs19821415|issn=0277-7126}}</ref> These sections, especially Jor is described as not a beat nor a ryhtmn but a movement that helps the Raga gain momentum in the beginning of the piece.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Erdman|first=Joan L.|last2=Semiotic Society of American, in cooperation with the Philosophy Documentation Center|date=1982|title=The Empty Beat: Khālī as a Sign of Time|url=http://www.pdcnet.org/oom/service?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=&rft.imuse_id=ajs_1982_0001_0004_0021_0045&svc_id=info:www.pdcnet.org/collection|journal=The American Journal of Semiotics|volume=1|issue=4|pages=21–45|doi=10.5840/ajs19821415|issn=0277-7126}}</ref> The frameworks and methods employed may vary according to whether the raga is performed by a vocalist or an instrumentalist.
In a full performance, the Raga can be spilt into three sections, the alap, jor and jhala. Jor and Alap acts as equivalents to one another, and the [[Jhala]] is a fast and unaccompanied part where the Jor is accelerated to reach a peak/climax.<ref name=":4" /> Within the Jor and Jhala, a pulse can be heard throughout.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Erdman|first=Joan L.|last2=Semiotic Society of American, in cooperation with the Philosophy Documentation Center|date=1982|title=The Empty Beat: Khālī as a Sign of Time|url=http://www.pdcnet.org/oom/service?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=&rft.imuse_id=ajs_1982_0001_0004_0021_0045&svc_id=info:www.pdcnet.org/collection|journal=The American Journal of Semiotics|volume=1|issue=4|pages=21–45|doi=10.5840/ajs19821415|issn=0277-7126}}</ref> These sections, especially Jor is described as not a beat nor a [[rhythm]] but a movement that helps the [[Raga]] gain momentum in the beginning of the piece.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Erdman|first=Joan L.|last2=Semiotic Society of American, in cooperation with the Philosophy Documentation Center|date=1982|title=The Empty Beat: Khālī as a Sign of Time|url=http://www.pdcnet.org/oom/service?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=&rft.imuse_id=ajs_1982_0001_0004_0021_0045&svc_id=info:www.pdcnet.org/collection|journal=The American Journal of Semiotics|volume=1|issue=4|pages=21–45|doi=10.5840/ajs19821415|issn=0277-7126}}</ref> The frameworks and methods employed may vary according to whether the raga is performed by a [[vocalist]] or an [[Musical instrument|instrumentalist]].


=== Dhrupad ===
=== Dhrupad ===


Dhrupad is another form of Raga that is older and restricts the Alap, Jor and Jhala sections in such a way that is heard more frequently in present day.<ref name=":0" /> This genre of Indian Music formed the foundation for the Alap-Jor-Jhala-Gat structure to be welcomed to the West in the 20<sup>th</sup> Century.<ref name=":6" /> In Dhrupad, its distinctive feature is the climatic beginning in comparison to Raga’s ascending composition. The word Dhrupad meaning ‘fixed verse’ refers to the complex opening section (Alap) allowing the other sections to grow and expand.<ref name=":3" />  
[[Dhrupad]] is another form of Raga that is older and restricts the Alap, Jor and Jhala sections in such a way that is heard more frequently in present day.<ref name=":0" /> This genre of Indian Music formed the foundation for the Alap-Jor-Jhala-Gat structure to be welcomed to the West in the 20<sup>th</sup> Century.<ref name=":6">Lavezzoli. The Dawn of Indian Music in the West. Bloomsbury Academic, 2007.</ref> In Dhrupad, its distinctive feature is the climatic beginning in comparison to Raga’s ascending [[composition]]. The word Dhrupad meaning ‘fixed verse’ refers to the complex opening section (Alap) allowing the other sections to grow and expand.<ref name=":3" />  


It is common in Dhrupad, for the Alap to be extended and unaccompanied, similar to most instrumental genres in Norther Indian music.<ref name=":4" /> It also focuses on a longer and more structured version of the alap-jor section. In comparison to Khayal, there is a clear structural division between the opening of Raga-alap and Jor.<ref name=":1" /> The Jor section in Dhrupad can be heard by its increasingly articulated and rapid pulse. Within this section, Jor follows the most common rhythmic cycle in Dhrupad, being the twelve beat.  The theme of intensification is prominent as the subsequent switch from the alap to jor, is identified as more rhythmic once it reaches the Jor section.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Napier|first=John|date=2019-11-26|title=Structure and Proportion in Hindustani Ālāp|url=http://emusicology.org/article/view/5502|journal=Empirical Musicology Review|volume=14|issue=1-2|pages=53|doi=10.18061/emr.v14i1-2.5502|issn=1559-5749}}</ref> A common instrument utilised throughout Dhrupad, in the Jor, is the Rudra Vina, a string instrument that evokes a melodic rhythm.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Lavezzoli|first=Peter|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62134753|title=The dawn of Indian music in the West : Bhairavi|date=2006|publisher=Continuum|isbn=0-8264-1815-5|location=New York|oclc=62134753}}</ref>
It is common in Dhrupad, for the Alap to be extended and unaccompanied, similar to most instrumental genres in Norther Indian music.<ref name=":4" /> It also focuses on a longer and more structured version of the alap-jor section. In comparison to [[Khayal]], there is a clear structural division between the opening of Raga-alap and Jor.<ref name=":1" /> The Jor section in Dhrupad can be heard by its increasingly articulated and rapid pulse. Within this section, Jor follows the most common rhythmic cycle in Dhrupad, being the twelve beat.  The theme of intensification is prominent as the subsequent switch from the alap to jor, is identified as more rhythmic once it reaches the Jor section.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Napier|first=John|date=2019-11-26|title=Structure and Proportion in Hindustani Ālāp|url=http://emusicology.org/article/view/5502|journal=Empirical Musicology Review|volume=14|issue=1-2|pages=53|doi=10.18061/emr.v14i1-2.5502|issn=1559-5749}}</ref> A common instrument utilised throughout [[Dhrupad]], in the [[Jor]], is the [[Rudra veena|Rudra Vina]], a [[string instrument]] that evokes a [[Melody|melodic]] rhythm.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Lavezzoli|first=Peter|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/62134753|title=The dawn of Indian music in the West : Bhairavi|date=2006|publisher=Continuum|isbn=0-8264-1815-5|location=New York|oclc=62134753}}</ref>


A study conducted by Napier<ref name=":1" />, portrays that the end point of the Dhrupad is the articulation of the last note played in the Alap during the Jor section. It also notes that there is a large sectionalisation in the Dhrupad that is obvious in Jor as the consistency in regard to rhythmic composition is hard to recognise in Dhrupad.
A study conducted by Napier<ref name=":1" />, portrays that the end point of the Dhrupad is the articulation of the last note played in the Alap during the Jor section. It also notes that there is a large sectionalisation in the Dhrupad that is obvious in Jor as the consistency in regard to rhythmic composition is hard to recognise in Dhrupad.
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== Structure ==
== Structure ==


=== Rhythm ===
Jor acts the second introduction after the alap, within a raga performance. It follows a similar structure to alap, with a shift in rhythmic style. As the raga transitions into the Jor, the pulse is introduced by the melody instrumentalist.<ref>Moran. Music, bodies and relationships: An ethnographic contribution to embodied cognition studies. University of Edinburgh, 2013.</ref> The Jor utilises the features of scale and patterns in the previous section (alap) and improvises to create a new variation of these features.<ref name=":5">Erdman. The Empty Beat: Khali As A Sign of Time. University of Chicago, 1982. pp. 24.</ref> During jor, the performance must maintain a steady pulse with the exclusion of drums, which remains the same throughout alap, jor and jhala.<ref name=":2">Jairazbhoy, N.A. (1971). The Rags of North Indian Music: Their Structure and Evolution. Faber and Faber Limited. pp. 27.</ref>
An instrumental performance of [[Jor]], is comprised of a [[Sitar|sitarist]] who will pluck certain notes on a guitar or another instrument, with a consistent rhythm. A vocal performance of Jor will show a vocalist singing each phrase in equal time.<ref name=":0" /> A recording of two Raga performances conducted by [[Dharambir Singh|Dhaeambir Singh]] Dadhyalla, indicated that Jor, along with Alap, lasts for 5 minutes which reduced the amount of tempo change throughout the beginning section.<ref name=":7" />

An instrumental performance of jor consists of a sitarist who plucks certain notes on a guitar or another instrument, with a consistent rhythm. A vocal performance of jor has a vocalist singing each phrase in equal time.<ref name=":6">Lavezzoli. The Dawn of Indian Music in the West. Bloomsbury Academic, 2007.</ref>

In musical notation, jor follows the same notes as alap, with a constant steady beat between each. The distinction between alap and jor is made between the increase in regularity in the jor in comparison to previous alap section.<ref>Mathur, Suhas, Bhismadev and Singh. Emotional responses to Hindustani raga music: The role of Musical Structure. Frontiers in Psychology, 2015.</ref> Similarly, the basic sound sequence in this section is formed by chikari events to evoke a prominent timbral-rhythmic pattern.<ref>Will, Clayton, Wertheum, Leantem and Berg. Pulse and Entrainment to Non-Isochronous Auditory Stimuli: The Case of North Indian Alap. PLoS ONE, 2014.</ref> The relationship between the two, forms the definition of a bridge that is connected with the light characteristics of alap and followed by the controlled design of the raga, where the drums decide the join into the arrangement.<ref>Lavezzoli. The Dawn of Indian Music in the West. Bloomsbury Academic, 2007.</ref> The theme formed in the introduction of the Alap, is continued to Jor, where the drums and rhythmic beats are excluded, and the chosen melodic instrument is strummed at an accelerated pace or the performer increases the phrasing of each syllable.<ref>Moran. Music, bodies and relationships: An ethnographic contribution to embodied cognition studies. University of Edinburgh, 2013.</ref>


An experiment conducted by Will, Clayton, Wertheim, Leante, Berg (2014 ) shows that the pulse progression in the Jor and Alap sections of Raga are distinctively different.<ref>Mathur, Suhas, Bhismadev and Singh. Emotional responses to Hindustani raga music: The role of Musical Structure. Frontiers in Psychology, 2015.</ref> The alap shows that there are at least nine different pulse rates, whilst in Jor there are only three. These characteristics in the Jor that distinguish it from the other sections are what creates different responses from audiences.
An experiment conducted by Will, Clayton, Wertheim, Leante, Berg shows that the pulse progression in the Jor and Alap sections of Raga are distinctively different.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Mathur|first=Avantika|last2=Vijayakumar|first2=Suhas H.|last3=Chakrabarti|first3=Bhismadev|last4=Singh|first4=Nandini C.|date=2015-04-30|title=Emotional responses to Hindustani raga music: the role of musical structure|url=http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00513/abstract|journal=Frontiers in Psychology|volume=6|doi=10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00513|issn=1664-1078|pmc=PMC4415143|pmid=25983702}}</ref> The alap shows that there are at least nine different pulse rates, whilst in Jor there are only three. These characteristics in the Jor that distinguish it from the other sections are what creates different responses from audiences.
[[File:Photoshoot with Rishab Rikhiram Sharma 04.jpg|thumb|Hindustani Music played on a Sitar]]
In the 3-section format of the Raga, Alap-Jor-Jhala, Jor and Alap can share similarities in its composition and rhythmic style. However, Jor contains distinctive features which makes it stand out in the Raga. Jor in comparison to the Alap, is usually slow in its introduction into the [[Raga]], but continuously builds until it reaches a fast tempo. This allows a steady transition into the Jhala, as it continues the quickened beat set by Jor.<ref name="SorrellNarayan1980" /> Alap is solely defined by its free rhythm, whereas Jor is limited to its regular pulse following a simple beat pattern which can be elaborated in some cases.<ref name=":4" /> As the Raga progresses, Jor acts as the link between the [[Alap]] and [[Jhala]] as it applies the melody introduced in the Alap and expands it through to the Jhala. The utilisation of [[Gamak (music)|Gamak]] throughout Jor, which consists of a pattern of three notes exploring a wider range or [[octave]].<ref>{{Cite book|last=Sorrell|first=Neil|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/6086559|title=Indian music in performance : a practical introduction|date=1980|publisher=New York University Press|others=Ram Narayan|isbn=0-8147-7815-1|location=New York|pages=101|oclc=6086559}}</ref> Another difference between the two opening sections is the freedom granted to Jor as it moves between different pulses and speeds, whilst still focusing on certain smaller parts within the song.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Sorrell|first=Neil|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/6086559|title=Indian music in performance : a practical introduction|date=1980|publisher=New York University Press|others=Ram Narayan|isbn=0-8147-7815-1|location=New York|pages=110|oclc=6086559}}</ref>


=== Transition ===
The transition between the three section, alap-jor-jhala, is continuous and each part builds from its predecessor.  Jor or literal meaning ‘[[join]]’ acts the second introduction after the alap, within a raga [[performance]]. It follows a similar structure to alap, with a shift in rhythmic style. As the Raga transitions into the Jor, the pulse is introduced by the melody [[Musical instrument|instrumentalist]].<ref name=":8">{{Cite journal|last=Moran|first=Nikki|title=Music, bodies and relationships: An ethnographic contribution to embodied cognition studies|url=http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0305735611400174|journal=Psychology of Music|language=en|volume=41|issue=1|pages=5–17|doi=10.1177/0305735611400174|issn=0305-7356}}</ref> The Jor utilises the features of [[scale]] and [[Pattern|patterns]] in the previous section ([[Alap]]) and improvises to create a new variation of these features.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Erdman|first=Joan L.|last2=Semiotic Society of American, in cooperation with the Philosophy Documentation Center|date=1982|title=The Empty Beat: Khālī as a Sign of Time|url=http://www.pdcnet.org/oom/service?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=&rft.imuse_id=ajs_1982_0001_0004_0021_0045&svc_id=info:www.pdcnet.org/collection|journal=The American Journal of Semiotics|volume=1|issue=4|pages=31|doi=10.5840/ajs19821415|issn=0277-7126}}</ref> During jor, the performance must maintain a steady pulse with the exclusion of [[Drum kit|drums]], which remains the same throughout Alap, Jor and Jhala.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Jairazbhoy|first=Nazir Ali|url=https://www.worldcat.org/oclc/164263|title=The rāgs of North Indian music : their structure and evolution|date=1971|publisher=Faber and Faber Ltd|isbn=0-571-08315-3|location=London|pages=31|oclc=164263}}</ref>


In [[musical notation]], jor follows the same notes as alap, with a constant steady beat between each. Narayan<ref name="SorrellNarayan1980" /> states that Jor is the "faster portion of alap, with rythmn," but deviates from Alap through its ability to concentrate on smaller sections or notes throughout the Raga. The distinction between alap and jor is made between the increase in regularity in the jor in comparison to previous alap section.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Mathur|first=Avantika|last2=Vijayakumar|first2=Suhas H.|last3=Chakrabarti|first3=Bhismadev|last4=Singh|first4=Nandini C.|date=2015-04-30|title=Emotional responses to Hindustani raga music: the role of musical structure|url=http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00513/abstract|journal=Frontiers in Psychology|volume=6|pages=2-3|doi=10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00513|issn=1664-1078|pmc=PMC4415143|pmid=25983702}}</ref> Similarly, the basic sound sequence in this section is formed by chikari events to evoke a prominent timbral-rhythmic pattern.<ref>{{Cite journal|last=Will|first=Udo|last2=Clayton|first2=Martin|last3=Wertheim|first3=Ira|last4=Leante|first4=Laura|last5=Berg|first5=Eric|date=2015-04-07|editor-last=Kotz|editor-first=Sonja|title=Pulse and Entrainment to Non-Isochronous Auditory Stimuli: The Case of North Indian Alap|url=https://dx.plos.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0123247|journal=PLOS ONE|language=en|volume=10|issue=4|pages=9|doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0123247|issn=1932-6203}}</ref>  The relationship between the two, forms the definition of a bridge that is connected with the light characteristics of alap and followed by the controlled design of the [[raga]], where the drums decide the join into the arrangement.<ref name=":0" /> The theme formed in the introduction of the Alap, is continued to Jor, where the drums and rhythmic beats are excluded, and the chosen melodic instrument is strummed at an accelerated pace or the [[performer]] increases the phrasing of each [[syllable]].<ref name=":8" />


== References ==
== References ==

Revision as of 14:40, 30 May 2021

In Hindustani classical music, the jor (Hindi: जोर, [dʒoːr]; also spelt jod and jhor) is a formal section of composition in the long elaboration (alap) of a raga that forms the beginning of a performance. It comes after alap and precedes jhala, the climax.[1] Jor is the instrumental equivalent of nomtom in the dhrupad vocal style of Indian music. Both have a simple pulse but no well-defined rhythmic cycle.[2]

This article is or was the subject of a Wiki Education Foundation-supported course assignment.

Origin and Terminology

Jor (or Jod) is an instrumental interpretation of nomtom which is an introductory style that is characterised by its modest rhythm and lack of rhythmic cycle (also known as Tal).[3] Jor is present in most Hindustani classical music through the raga, as an articulate and rapid pulse that the alap transitions into, followed by jhala.[4]

In Hindustani Music

Indian classical music is divided into 2 sections: Hindustani and Carnatic Music. Both musical styles inhabit the core traditions of India culture, and are portrayed as one of the most prestigious types of music.  These two traditional types of music are both defined by the Sanskrit term "sangita" which refers to the fusion of all the elements, of song, instrumental music and dance.[1] Hindustani Music is primarily found in the Northern areas of India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. The oral nature of North Indian Music allows for expressive communication between the performers and audience.[5] Raga and Dhrupad are the two main forms of Hindustani classical music and form the prominent structure of Indian Classical Music.[6] The musical section of Jor is prominent in Raga and follows the cyclical and linear progression of Hindustani music.[7]

Raga

The concept of Raga (Rag) can be divided into 5 different components as proposed by Nazir Ali Jairazbhoy:[8]

1)    Scale

2)    Ascending and descending line

3)    Transilience

4)    Emphasised notes and register

5)    Intonation and obligatory embellishments

Raga is derived from Sanskrit, a classical language from South Asia, and is defined as "the act of colouring and dyeing."[8] Amongst Indian Classical Music, raga is identified as the basic melodic framework and acts as a communication medium for two musicians. In the Raga there is a constant interplay between what is learnt from the performance, what is known and what is continued through improvisation.[9] A raga utilises a particular scale and combines it with prototypical melodic patterns, creating combinations of tonic intervals which evoke unique emotions.[4]

A typical raga composition is shown as sequences of events, starting with the alap and followed by the gat. A performance of raga depends on the balance between the melody and the way the audience and performer engage with the material.[10] The Jor is situated between the Alap and Jhala, commonly known as the instrumental Alap-Jor-Jhala-Gat format. This framework details the unmetered instrumental structure of the Raga, which is performed with a regular pulse and over a wider melodic range.[11] This format is the foundation of Dhrupad as was introduced into the West in the 20th Century.[12]

Vinod Kumar Dwivedi preforming Dhrupad

In a full performance, the Raga can be spilt into three sections, the alap, jor and jhala. Jor and Alap acts as equivalents to one another, and the Jhala is a fast and unaccompanied part where the Jor is accelerated to reach a peak/climax.[11] Within the Jor and Jhala, a pulse can be heard throughout.[13] These sections, especially Jor is described as not a beat nor a rhythm but a movement that helps the Raga gain momentum in the beginning of the piece.[14] The frameworks and methods employed may vary according to whether the raga is performed by a vocalist or an instrumentalist.

Dhrupad

Dhrupad is another form of Raga that is older and restricts the Alap, Jor and Jhala sections in such a way that is heard more frequently in present day.[3] This genre of Indian Music formed the foundation for the Alap-Jor-Jhala-Gat structure to be welcomed to the West in the 20th Century.[15] In Dhrupad, its distinctive feature is the climatic beginning in comparison to Raga’s ascending composition. The word Dhrupad meaning ‘fixed verse’ refers to the complex opening section (Alap) allowing the other sections to grow and expand.[10]  

It is common in Dhrupad, for the Alap to be extended and unaccompanied, similar to most instrumental genres in Norther Indian music.[11] It also focuses on a longer and more structured version of the alap-jor section. In comparison to Khayal, there is a clear structural division between the opening of Raga-alap and Jor.[4] The Jor section in Dhrupad can be heard by its increasingly articulated and rapid pulse. Within this section, Jor follows the most common rhythmic cycle in Dhrupad, being the twelve beat.  The theme of intensification is prominent as the subsequent switch from the alap to jor, is identified as more rhythmic once it reaches the Jor section.[16] A common instrument utilised throughout Dhrupad, in the Jor, is the Rudra Vina, a string instrument that evokes a melodic rhythm.[17]

A study conducted by Napier[4], portrays that the end point of the Dhrupad is the articulation of the last note played in the Alap during the Jor section. It also notes that there is a large sectionalisation in the Dhrupad that is obvious in Jor as the consistency in regard to rhythmic composition is hard to recognise in Dhrupad.

Structure

Rhythm

An instrumental performance of Jor, is comprised of a sitarist who will pluck certain notes on a guitar or another instrument, with a consistent rhythm. A vocal performance of Jor will show a vocalist singing each phrase in equal time.[3] A recording of two Raga performances conducted by Dhaeambir Singh Dadhyalla, indicated that Jor, along with Alap, lasts for 5 minutes which reduced the amount of tempo change throughout the beginning section.[5]

An experiment conducted by Will, Clayton, Wertheim, Leante, Berg shows that the pulse progression in the Jor and Alap sections of Raga are distinctively different.[18] The alap shows that there are at least nine different pulse rates, whilst in Jor there are only three. These characteristics in the Jor that distinguish it from the other sections are what creates different responses from audiences.

Hindustani Music played on a Sitar

In the 3-section format of the Raga, Alap-Jor-Jhala, Jor and Alap can share similarities in its composition and rhythmic style. However, Jor contains distinctive features which makes it stand out in the Raga. Jor in comparison to the Alap, is usually slow in its introduction into the Raga, but continuously builds until it reaches a fast tempo. This allows a steady transition into the Jhala, as it continues the quickened beat set by Jor.[1] Alap is solely defined by its free rhythm, whereas Jor is limited to its regular pulse following a simple beat pattern which can be elaborated in some cases.[11] As the Raga progresses, Jor acts as the link between the Alap and Jhala as it applies the melody introduced in the Alap and expands it through to the Jhala. The utilisation of Gamak throughout Jor, which consists of a pattern of three notes exploring a wider range or octave.[19] Another difference between the two opening sections is the freedom granted to Jor as it moves between different pulses and speeds, whilst still focusing on certain smaller parts within the song.[20]

Transition

The transition between the three section, alap-jor-jhala, is continuous and each part builds from its predecessor.  Jor or literal meaning ‘join’ acts the second introduction after the alap, within a raga performance. It follows a similar structure to alap, with a shift in rhythmic style. As the Raga transitions into the Jor, the pulse is introduced by the melody instrumentalist.[21] The Jor utilises the features of scale and patterns in the previous section (Alap) and improvises to create a new variation of these features.[22] During jor, the performance must maintain a steady pulse with the exclusion of drums, which remains the same throughout Alap, Jor and Jhala.[23]

In musical notation, jor follows the same notes as alap, with a constant steady beat between each. Narayan[1] states that Jor is the "faster portion of alap, with rythmn," but deviates from Alap through its ability to concentrate on smaller sections or notes throughout the Raga. The distinction between alap and jor is made between the increase in regularity in the jor in comparison to previous alap section.[24] Similarly, the basic sound sequence in this section is formed by chikari events to evoke a prominent timbral-rhythmic pattern.[25]  The relationship between the two, forms the definition of a bridge that is connected with the light characteristics of alap and followed by the controlled design of the raga, where the drums decide the join into the arrangement.[3] The theme formed in the introduction of the Alap, is continued to Jor, where the drums and rhythmic beats are excluded, and the chosen melodic instrument is strummed at an accelerated pace or the performer increases the phrasing of each syllable.[21]

References

  1. ^ a b c d Sorrell, Neil (1980). Indian music in performance : a practical introduction. Ram Narayan. New York: New York University Press. p. 109. ISBN 0-8147-7815-1. OCLC 6086559.
  2. ^ Kamien, Roger, and Anita Kamien. Music: an Appreciation. McGraw-Hill Education, 2018.
  3. ^ a b c d Lavezzoli. The Dawn of Indian Music in the West. Bloomsbury Academic, 2007.
  4. ^ a b c d Napier. Structure and Proportion in Hindustani Alap. University of New South Wales, 2019. pp. 56.
  5. ^ a b Rohrmeier, Martin; Widdess, Richard (2017-07). "Incidental Learning of Melodic Structure of North Indian Music". Cognitive Science. 41 (5): 1299–1327. doi:10.1111/cogs.12404. {{cite journal}}: Check date values in: |date= (help)
  6. ^ Will, U., Clayton, M., Wertheim, I., Leante, L., Berg, E. (2014). Pulse and Entrainment to Non-Isochronous Auditory Stimuli: The Case of North Indian Alap. PLoS ONE. p.2.
  7. ^ Erdman, J. (1982). The Empty Beat: Khali As A Sign of Time. University of Chicago. pp 1.
  8. ^ a b Jairazbhoy, N.A. (1971). The Rags of North Indian Music: Their Structure and Evolution. Faber and Faber Limited. pp. 27.
  9. ^ Sanyal, Ritwik (2004). Dhrupad : tradition and performance in Indian music. Richard Widdess. Aldershot, Hants, England: Ashgate. ISBN 0-7546-0379-2. OCLC 51985008.
  10. ^ a b McNeil, Adrian (2 January 2017). "Seed ideas and creativity in Hindustani raga music: beyond the composition–improvisation dialectic". Ethnomusicology Forum. 26 (1): 116–132. doi:10.1080/17411912.2017.1304230. ISSN 1741-1912.
  11. ^ a b c d Clayton, Martin (2008). Time in Indian music : rhythm, metre, and form in North Indian råag performance. New York: Oxford University Press. ISBN 0-19-985193-X. OCLC 779875847.
  12. ^ Erdman. The Empty Beat: Khali As A Sign of Time. University of Chicago, 1982. pp. 24.
  13. ^ Erdman, Joan L.; Semiotic Society of American, in cooperation with the Philosophy Documentation Center (1982). "The Empty Beat: Khālī as a Sign of Time". The American Journal of Semiotics. 1 (4): 21–45. doi:10.5840/ajs19821415. ISSN 0277-7126.
  14. ^ Erdman, Joan L.; Semiotic Society of American, in cooperation with the Philosophy Documentation Center (1982). "The Empty Beat: Khālī as a Sign of Time". The American Journal of Semiotics. 1 (4): 21–45. doi:10.5840/ajs19821415. ISSN 0277-7126.
  15. ^ Lavezzoli. The Dawn of Indian Music in the West. Bloomsbury Academic, 2007.
  16. ^ Napier, John (26 November 2019). "Structure and Proportion in Hindustani Ālāp". Empirical Musicology Review. 14 (1–2): 53. doi:10.18061/emr.v14i1-2.5502. ISSN 1559-5749.
  17. ^ Lavezzoli, Peter (2006). The dawn of Indian music in the West : Bhairavi. New York: Continuum. ISBN 0-8264-1815-5. OCLC 62134753.
  18. ^ Mathur, Avantika; Vijayakumar, Suhas H.; Chakrabarti, Bhismadev; Singh, Nandini C. (30 April 2015). "Emotional responses to Hindustani raga music: the role of musical structure". Frontiers in Psychology. 6. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00513. ISSN 1664-1078. PMC 4415143. PMID 25983702.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: PMC format (link) CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  19. ^ Sorrell, Neil (1980). Indian music in performance : a practical introduction. Ram Narayan. New York: New York University Press. p. 101. ISBN 0-8147-7815-1. OCLC 6086559.
  20. ^ Sorrell, Neil (1980). Indian music in performance : a practical introduction. Ram Narayan. New York: New York University Press. p. 110. ISBN 0-8147-7815-1. OCLC 6086559.
  21. ^ a b Moran, Nikki. "Music, bodies and relationships: An ethnographic contribution to embodied cognition studies". Psychology of Music. 41 (1): 5–17. doi:10.1177/0305735611400174. ISSN 0305-7356.
  22. ^ Erdman, Joan L.; Semiotic Society of American, in cooperation with the Philosophy Documentation Center (1982). "The Empty Beat: Khālī as a Sign of Time". The American Journal of Semiotics. 1 (4): 31. doi:10.5840/ajs19821415. ISSN 0277-7126.
  23. ^ Jairazbhoy, Nazir Ali (1971). The rāgs of North Indian music : their structure and evolution. London: Faber and Faber Ltd. p. 31. ISBN 0-571-08315-3. OCLC 164263.
  24. ^ Mathur, Avantika; Vijayakumar, Suhas H.; Chakrabarti, Bhismadev; Singh, Nandini C. (30 April 2015). "Emotional responses to Hindustani raga music: the role of musical structure". Frontiers in Psychology. 6: 2–3. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2015.00513. ISSN 1664-1078. PMC 4415143. PMID 25983702.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: PMC format (link) CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)
  25. ^ Will, Udo; Clayton, Martin; Wertheim, Ira; Leante, Laura; Berg, Eric (7 April 2015). Kotz, Sonja (ed.). "Pulse and Entrainment to Non-Isochronous Auditory Stimuli: The Case of North Indian Alap". PLOS ONE. 10 (4): 9. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0123247. ISSN 1932-6203.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: unflagged free DOI (link)