About Melodies Of Romance
Melodies Of Romance is a studio album by Indian classical musician Shivkumar Sharma. The album was released on January 1, 1983. It features three instrumental tracks performed on the santoor, a traditional hammered dulcimer from the Kashmir region of India.
Shivkumar Sharma composed and performed all tracks on the album. The primary format of the release is a vinyl LP. The record label for the album has not been specified in available sources.
The album opens with Raga Pahadi: Tritaal, a composition set in Raga Pahadi. This raga is associated with the mountainous regions of northern India and evokes a pastoral mood. The piece follows Tritaal, a 16-beat rhythmic cycle commonly used in Hindustani classical music.
The second track, Raga Mishra Shivaranjani: Taal Deepchandi, blends Raga Shivaranjani with elements from other ragas, creating a mishra (mixed) structure. The composition is set to Deepchandi, a 14-beat taal that originates from the folk traditions of North India.
The final track, Raga Bhairavin: Taal Dadra, is based on Raga Bhairav, a morning raga known for its solemn and meditative character. The piece employs Dadra, a 6-beat rhythmic cycle often used in lighter classical and semi-classical compositions.
Melodies Of Romance showcases Sharma’s technical mastery and interpretive depth on the santoor. The album remains a notable example of Hindustani classical music from the late 20th century.