Beyond the Scale: AUM and the Sacred Triad of 1, 3, and 5th Notes Unveiled Across Musical Dimensions

The concept that all sounds emanate from the sacred sound "AUM" is rooted in Hindu philosophy and spirituality. In Hinduism, AUM (also spelled OM) is considered a cosmic sound, representing the ultimate reality or consciousness. It is often described as the sound of the universe, encompassing all other sounds. The association between the sacred sound "AUM" and the 1st, 3rd, and 5th notes of a musical chord is an interesting parallel that combines elements of both Eastern philosophy and Western music theory. In Western music theory, a basic chord is typically made up of three notes, known as a triad. The three essential notes in a triad are:

• Root (1st) - A (Aa) - Brahma: The foundational note of the chord. Can be analogized to the root, representing the beginning or creation.

• Third (3rd) - U (Uu or Oo) – Vishnu : The note that is two scale degrees above the root. Can be associated with the third, symbolizing preservation or sustenance.

• Fifth (5th) - M (Mm) Maheswara: The note that is four scale degrees above the root. Can be linked to the fifth, representing dissolution or destruction.

These three notes form the core structure of a chord and determine its quality (major, minor, sus2 or 4, major 7th, minor 7th, dominant 7th, 9th major or minor,9th, 11th, 13th, diminished, augmented etc.). For example, a major chord has a major third and a perfect fifth, while a minor chord has a minor third (third note becomes flat) and a perfect fifth.Together, these three sounds symbolise the cycle of creation, preservation, and dissolution, reflecting the cosmic processes of the universe.

The root note gives you the origin or name of the chord. The third note is very interesting because it holds the sustenance or Vishu energy. That is why if it is just 3rd from the root scale, then we call it a major chord, but if it becomes flat, then it will be minor chord, so the 3rd note defines the sustenance of the chord from the root scale. Then comes the 5th note, the trance-defining note from the scale or Shiva energy; this note is connected with time. If you want to cross this note, then you can add the 6th, 7th, 9th, 11th, and 13th of the root scale. The 5th note and after the 5th, those notes are beyond time and space. Here comes the Lord Shiva energy; he is trancedening your energy to different levels where you have to cross the 5th note or destroy or dissolve some notes, then you can reach there.

Major chords often evoke feelings of joy and celebration. In the context of existence, major chords could symbolize moments of happiness, accomplishment, and celebration in one's life journey. The uplifting quality of major chords may represent an optimistic outlook on life and the belief in a positive future.

Minor chords often evoke deep and complex emotions. Similarly, existence is filled with a range of emotional experiences, including joy, sorrow, love, and loss. The minor chord may symbolize the depth and richness of the human experience. In music, the contrast between major and minor chords contributes to the overall balance of a composition. Similarly, the contrasting experiences in life, including moments of challenge and hardship, contribute to the overall balance and growth of an individual. Likewise, existence is characterized by both hardships and moments of beauty, and individuals often exhibit resilience in the face of challenges.

Music is a universal language that has the power to evoke a wide range of emotions and feelings. Different music genres from around the world reflect the diverse cultural expressions and human experiences. Here are some major music genres and their typical emotional qualities:

Indian classical music, both Hindustani (from North India) and Carnatic (from South India), is deeply rooted in tradition and spirituality. It has a profound connection with emotions and is designed to evoke specific feelings and moods. Here are some emotions often associated with Indian classical music:

Shringar (Romance/Love):Raga associations like Yaman in Hindustani music and Kalyani in Carnatic music are often associated with the emotion of love and romance. These ragas are chosen to express the beauty of love and devotion.

Karuna (Compassion/Sorrow):Certain ragas, such as Bhairavi in Hindustani and Karaharapriya in Carnatic, are known for evoking a sense of deep compassion and sorrow. The slow, meditative movements in these ragas can touch the listener's heart.

Hasya (Humor/Joy):Some compositions and ragas are designed to bring a sense of joy and humor. In Carnatic music, for example, a raga like Kapi is associated with a playful and joyful mood.

Raudra (Anger):Ragas like Marwa in Hindustani and Rudrapriya in Carnatic are known for their intense and sometimes fiery nature. They can convey a sense of strength and anger.

Veera (Courage):Certain ragas and compositions are chosen to express bravery and courage. Ragas like Bhairav in Hindustani music and Shanmukhapriya in Carnatic music can evoke a feeling of strength and valor.

Adbhuta (Wonder/Awe):Some ragas, like Todi in Hindustani and Natabhairavi in Carnatic, are chosen to evoke a sense of wonder and awe. These ragas can create a meditative and contemplative atmosphere.

Shanta (Peace):Ragas like Ahir Bhairav in Hindustani and Pantuvarali in Carnatic are often associated with a peaceful and tranquil mood. They can induce a sense of calmness and serenity.

Bhakti (Devotion):Many compositions in Indian classical music are dedicated to expressing devotion and spirituality. Ragas like Bhairav in Hindustani and Kharaharapriya in Carnatic are chosen for devotional renditions.

Viraha (Longing/Separation):Some ragas are chosen to express a sense of longing and separation. In Hindustani music, the raga Des can evoke a feeling of deep yearning.

Indian classical music is highly nuanced and relies on the intricate use of ragas, talas (rhythmic cycles), and emotive expressions through improvisation. Each performance is a journey through various emotions, creating a profound and spiritual experience for both the musician and the listener.

Western classical music, spanning various periods and styles, is known for its rich emotional depth and complexity. Composers have employed various musical techniques to convey a wide range of emotions. Here are some common emotions associated with Western classical music:

Joyful/Energetic:Compositions featuring fast tempos, bright major keys, and lively rhythms often evoke feelings of joy and energy. Examples include the allegro movements in symphonies and concertos.

Melancholic/Sad:Slower tempos, minor keys, and expressive melodies are often used to convey sadness or melancholy. Compositions like adagios and lamentations are notable for their emotional depth.

Triumphant:Majestic and powerful compositions, often featuring brass and percussion, can convey a sense of triumph and victory. Examples include the triumphant movements in Beethoven's symphonies.

Nostalgic:Certain melodies and harmonies can evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection. Composers may use modal scales or specific harmonic progressions to create a nostalgic atmosphere.

Romantic/Loving:Expressive and lyrical compositions, often featuring lush harmonies and beautiful melodies, can evoke feelings of romance and love. Romantic-era works, such as those by Chopin or Tchaikovsky, often explore these themes.

Mysterious/Enigmatic:Unusual harmonies, unexpected twists in melody, and use of unconventional scales can create a mysterious or enigmatic atmosphere. Some works by composers like Debussy and Ravel explore these qualities.

Anxious/Tense:Dissonant harmonies, abrupt changes in dynamics, and frenetic rhythms can convey a sense of tension and anxiety. Certain movements in 20th-century compositions or pieces like Beethoven's "Appassionato" Sonata can exhibit this quality.

Serene/Calm:Slow movements with gentle melodies, soft dynamics, and soothing harmonies can create a sense of calm and serenity. Adagios and andantes in various classical works often capture this mood.

Dramatic/Intense:Works with dramatic contrasts in dynamics, sudden shifts in tempo, and powerful orchestration can evoke intense and dramatic emotions. Composers like Wagner and Verdi are known for their dramatic compositions.

Regal/Majestic:Music with a regal character, often featuring brass fanfares and dignified melodies, can evoke feelings of royalty and majesty. Certain ceremonial music or compositions for state occasions may exhibit this quality.

Western classical music, with its vast repertoire and diverse styles, provides a rich tapestry of emotions. Composers have skilfully utilized various musical elements to convey nuanced and profound feelings throughout different historical periods and musical genres within the Western classical tradition.

Blues:Emotion: Sorrow, melancholy, resilience.Example: Delta blues often expresses feelings of hardship and struggle.

Jazz:Emotion: Improvisation, freedom, sophistication.Example: Modal jazz can evoke a sense of exploration and complex emotions.

Classical:Emotion: Elegance, grandeur, complexity.Example: Beethoven's symphonies often convey a range of emotions from triumph to deep introspection.

Rock:Emotion: Energy, rebellion, passion.Example: Classic rock might convey a sense of freedom and youthful exuberance.

Pop:Emotion: Catchiness, joy, romance.Example: Pop music often aims to be accessible and emotionally resonant with a wide audience.

Country:Emotion: Nostalgia, storytelling, sincerity.Example: Country songs often tell stories of everyday life and personal experiences.

Reggae:Emotion: Relaxation, positivity, social consciousness.Example: Bob Marley's reggae music often conveys messages of peace and unity.

Hip-Hop:Emotion: Confidence, empowerment, social commentary.Example: Hip-hop can express a wide range of emotions, from party vibes to introspective reflections.

Electronic/Dance:Emotion: Euphoria, excitement, energy.Example: Trance music often aims to create a hypnotic and uplifting experience.

Folk:Emotion: Authenticity, storytelling, connection to nature.Example: Folk music often reflects cultural traditions and local narratives.

World Music:Emotion: Cultural diversity, spirituality, celebration.Example: Various genres within world music, like African rhythms or Indian classical music, evoke specific cultural and emotional contexts.

Metal:Emotion: Intensity, aggression, catharsis.Example: Different sub-genres of metal, such as heavy metal or death metal, convey powerful emotions.

The AUM sound is coming from the great saints like Gautama, Aatri, and Bhardwaj, and this sound also carries the energy of Kali, Laxmi, and Swaraswati. Without feminine energy, this sound is nothing because the power of this sound comes from Shakti, or feminine energy.The feminine energy is very much connected with the moon; if the moon were not there in the sky, no woman would get pregnant, and their monthly cycle would be stopped. That is why the moon, or mind, is very vital in any spiritual text; the moon is also connected with music, singing, blood, travelling, and any kind of art form.

There are 7 chakras inside our body that you cannot see physically; you only have to experience them through your senses. Among them, just above our root chakra and behind the genitals, there is a chakra called Swadisthana chakra. This is a chakra or energy point that is connected with creation, or Lord Brahma. This chakra is responsible for our birth, and this chakra is also responsible for any kind of immortal creative activity like a movie, sculpture, painting, song, or any kind of art. If this chakra gets spoiled, then excessive Kama or lust will be activated, and you will become a sex or porn maniac. If you are an artist and want to heal people through your creativity, then this chakra vibrates in a good way. But whether you are a creative person or not, this chakra always activates your genitals through your mind or brain signal, so we say our prana or life flow is going in the lower direction of our body. If the power of the Venus in any chart is very strong and this chakra is very active, then that native will be very attractive with talented qualities like world-famous celebrity Elvis Presley or Marilyn Monroe. Always try to connect with the heart chakra because Vishnu, or sustenance, or our heart, resides there. Do your creativity take the energy of the Swadisthana chakra, but use it through your hearts. If your heart chakra is blocked, then you will never become a world-famous celebrity or famous artist because you are blocking yourself, and no outside energy is responsible for that. After that comes the Manipura Chakra. All kinds of gossip come from this chakra, and this is also a blockage of your life because you are ruining your mercury in your chart, which is responsible for the technical and logical parts of your brain as well as the creative mastery.

The Circle of Fifths represents a cyclic pattern in music, while AUM is often associated with the cyclical nature of creation, preservation, and dissolution in the spiritual realm.Jazz, especially in its more avant-garde and experimental forms, has the potential to transcend traditional musical boundaries. AUM, in a spiritual context, is a symbol of transcending the material world and connecting with the divine. Exploring the theme of transcendence in both realms could yield interesting connections.

In Hindu mythology, Lord Rudra is often associated with the destructive and transformative aspects of the divine. Similarly, some themes in rock music explore rebellion, destruction, and societal critiques. The metaphorical connection could be found in the idea of tearing down old structures for rebirth or renewal.

Blues music often conveys a sense of resilience in the face of adversity. Aadra Nakhatra, associated with transformation and rebirth, might offer a metaphorical connection in the context of overcoming challenges and undergoing personal growth. Blues music has the power to heal and transform emotions through its expressive qualities. Rudraksha beads, in some spiritual beliefs, are considered agents of healing and transformation.

The concept of ragas and raginis in Indian classical music and Latin music are rooted in different musical traditions, scales, and structures. However, it can be interesting to explore how elements from these traditions might be combined or influenced in a cross-cultural context. Indian classical music is known for its intricate rhythm patterns, often expressed through the use of talas. Latin music, particularly genres like salsa or bossa nova, also places a strong emphasis on rhythmic complexities. A fusion of rhythmic elements from both traditions could create a vibrant and energetic hybrid. Ragas in Indian classical music are based on specific melodic scales, while Latin music often relies on various modes and scales. Both Indian classical music and Latin music are characterized by the use of diverse percussion instruments. A fusion could involve the integration of tabla, mridangam, or other Indian percussion instruments with Latin percussion instruments like congas, bongos, or timbales. While ragas have specific melodic structures, Latin music often features expressive and emotive melodies.

Certainly, art forms have the power to encapsulate and convey the stories, beliefs, values, and aspirations of a particular era. Whether visual arts, literature, music, dance, or any other form, they serve as reflections of the cultural, social, and political contexts in which they emerge.

"Embrace the duality of life's musical journey — the harmonious highs and the discordant lows. AUM teaches us that each note is integral to the composition of our unique symphony. The harmony or disharmony of life is a choice we make with every note we play. Let the resonance of AUM be your guide in creating a symphony of purpose and fulfilment." - Atanu Basu