Gwalior School of Music

The Gwalior Gharana, or school, of music is a respected tradition of classical Indian vocal performance that originated in Gwalior, India. It emphasizes a systematic approach to raga development, focusing on clear pronunciation, precise onsets, and expressive improvisation within classical frameworks. Known for its emphasis on voice purity and elaborate breath control, the Gwalior style also emphasizes incorporating intricate melodic movements (alaps) and precise meend (gliding between notes). It has profoundly influenced Indian classical music, serving as a foundational style for many subsequent schools and vocalists.