One of the best ways to learn is to build your own playlists. Rather than random tracks, pick a theme and go deep.
Playlist ideas
- One raag, many artists – e.g., 5–6 recordings of Raag Yaman by different vocalists and instrumentalists.
- One artist, many raags – see how a favorite musician handles different emotional palettes.
- One time of day – dawn raags only, or evening raags only.
- One form – only Dhrupad, or only Thumri, or only tabla solos.
Compare and note
As you listen, you can:
- Note which phrases you love in a notebook.
- Try to hum along and find Sa.
- Notice which recordings feel strict vs more relaxed with raag rules.
Over time, your playlist library becomes a personalized textbook, full of examples your ears already love.