Three Indian Nocturnes by Anish Raj Pandit, mvt 1

Program notes by the composer:

for Dr. Elizabeth Aronson Robertson

These three short movements are loosely raga-based compositions. Coming from a western background, many will feel that there is a hint of Vaughan Williams in this piece -- but in fact, considering that Britain had a long association with India, I feel Vaughan Williams may have taken inspiration from Indian classical music in his oboe concerto and music.

The section beginning in bar 19 is highly dedicative of "aalaap" (vocal melismas) or "Sargam" (Indian solfeggio) recitations that can be observed in Indian classical vocal concerts. These often come back to a common melodic and rhythmic ostinato/landing place, before taking off again. They are meant to feel somewhat improvisatory. Enjoy, and feel free to create rubato and special expressive moments throughout the piece, to your heart's content. Make the piece your own!