Taans

Taans, in Hindustani classical music, are rapid melodic runs or patterns performed within a raga. They function as improvisational displays of virtuosity and as a vehicle to explore the melodic possibilities of a raga. In a typical khayal performance, taans are presented after the alap, often within a chosen tala cycle, and they challenge the singer or instrumentalist to maintain accurate intonation and rhythm while moving swiftly through notes.

Common forms include bol taan, which uses syllables from the composition or improvised syllables, and sargam taan, which is built on the solfege notes (Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Dha Ni). Taans are constructed to stay within the rules and characteristic phrases of the raga, and may incorporate meend (gliding) and precise phrasing to highlight the raga’s identity.

Taan technique requires command of the raga’s characteristic phrases (pakad), careful breath control, and the ability to adjust tempo. Performers may introduce taans at madhya tempo (medium) or drut taan (fast) and employ patterns that include rhythmic variations aligned with the tala, as well as abrupt leaps or intricate note sequences.

Taans are used by vocalists and instrumentalists alike, including singers, sitarists, and sarod players. While especially associated with the khayal genre, taans appear in other North Indian forms and in modern recital programming, and are taught as a fundamental skill in raga improvisation.