Exploring Nepali Music: 20 Key Questions and Answers

1. What is the most popular genre of music in Nepal?

Pop music is most popular in Nepal. But nowadays people love many genres whether it's folk music or heavy metal music.

 

2. What instruments are commonly used in traditional Nepali music?

Madal, Bansuri and Sarangi  are the most used instruments in the Nepali traditional music.

 

3. Who are some famous Nepali musicians or singers?

There are so many famous artists over Nepal, the most popular artists are Sajjan Raj Vaidya, Sushant Kc, Swoopna Suman etc.

 

4. What is the history of Nepali music?

Nepali music is a vibrant and diverse art form that has a long history in the country. Traditional Nepali music is characterized by its use of various percussion and stringed instruments, as well as its distinctive vocal styles. Modern Nepali music has been influenced by a range of different genres, including Indian and Western music, and has become popular both within Nepal and internationally.

 

5. How has Nepali music evolved over time?

Nepali music has evolved significantly over time, incorporating various influences and adapting to changing cultural contexts. Initially, Nepali music was primarily folk music that was passed down through oral traditions and played on traditional instruments such as the madal, sarangi, and bansuri. With the introduction of Western music in the 20th century, Nepali music began to incorporate new instruments such as guitars and keyboards, and Western musical styles such as pop, rock, and hip-hop.

Nepali music experienced a resurgence of interest in traditional music, with the formation of various Nepali folk music groups. Nepali music experienced a fusion of traditional and Western music, and the advent of cassette tapes and later, digital media, helped to expand the reach and accessibility of Nepali music in the 70s.

Today, Nepali music continues to evolve, with artists experimenting with various genres and styles, and incorporating new technologies and production techniques. While traditional Nepali music remains a significant part of Nepali culture, contemporary Nepali music is becoming increasingly popular both within Nepal and abroad.

6. What role does music play in Nepali culture?

Music plays an important role in Nepali culture, serving as a means of expression, celebration, and identity of Nepalese people. Traditional Nepali music is deeply rooted in the country's history and cultural heritage and is an important part of religious, social, and cultural ceremonies.

Nepali festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, are accompanied by traditional music and dance performances that reflect the cultural and religious significance of the celebrations. Weddings, too, feature live music performances, with traditional songs and dance forms played during the ceremonies.

Music has the power to transform the world through its words. In Nepal, music plays a significant role in politics, as it is often utilized to express opposition and rally public opinion through protest songs. Additionally, in recent times, Nepali musicians have effectively leveraged their music to address crucial social concerns, including poverty, gender equality, and human rights.

 

7. What are some traditional Nepali dance forms that accompany music?

Nepal has a diverse range of dance forms that are accompanied by music, stemming from rich cultural traditions. Here are some of the well-known traditional Nepali dances:

Deuda: Deuda is a type of traditional dance that has its roots in the western part of Nepal. Typically performed to celebrate the harvest season, this dance style is known for its lively music and quick, energetic movements.

Jhyaure: Jhyaure is a folk dance form that originated in the hills of eastern Nepal. It is performed during weddings and other social occasions and is characterized by its graceful movements and the use of props such as a cloth or a stick.

Tamang Selo: Tamang Selo is a dance form that originated in the Tamang community of Nepal. It is characterized by its use of traditional instruments such as the damphu, madal, and tungna, and is performed during various festivals and celebrations.

Dhime: Dhime is a drum-based dance form that originated in the Newar community of Nepal. It is performed during various festivals and ceremonies and is often accompanied by a chorus of singers.

Charya: Charya is a style of dance with origins in the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition, known for its intricate footwork, hand gestures, and facial expressions. It is typically performed as a part of religious ceremonies and rituals.

8. How has Western music influenced Nepali music?

Since the 1950s, Nepali music has been greatly impacted by Western music. The adoption of Western musical instruments and styles led to the emergence of a fusion of Nepali and Western music, which resonated with younger audiences. Popular Western genres like pop, rock, and hip-hop have been infused into Nepali music, and Nepali musicians have modified their traditional music to align with Western preferences. Presently, Western music still plays a significant role in shaping Nepali music, and many Nepali artists blend elements of both Western and Nepali traditions to create unique sounds.

 

9. Are there any distinct regional differences in Nepali music?

Yes, Nepali music exhibits notable regional variations, showcasing individualistic musical styles and customs that are exclusive to each specific region. The diverse geography of Nepal, combined with its rich cultural legacy, has played a significant role in shaping and nurturing distinctive musical traditions across the nation.

For instance, the Kathmandu Valley's Newari community boasts a vibrant musical tradition that involves the use of conventional instruments like dhime, Jhyali and madal. On the other hand, the music of the Himalayan area is marked by the use of instruments such as tungna and damphu, which draw significant inspiration from Tibetan and Sherpa cultures.

Similarly, the music from the Terai region in southern Nepal exhibits a strong influence from the neighboring Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, and is recognized for its use of traditional instruments like the harmonium and tabla.

 

10. What is the role of music in Nepali weddings?

In Nepali wedding customs, a ceremonial procession known as the janti takes place, where traditional musical instruments such as the shehnai, dhol, and madal are played. The groom is traditionally accompanied by a group of musicians and dancers as he is escorted to the bride's house during the procession.

During the wedding ceremony, traditional wedding songs and hymns are sung, and traditional instruments such as the bansuri, sarangi, and tabla are played.

After the wedding ceremony, traditional Nepali dance forms such as jhyaure and deuda are performed, and modern Nepali and Bollywood songs are played, providing entertainment for guests.

11. Who are some famous Nepali folk singers?

 

·         Narayan Gopal

·         Bhakta Raj Acharya

·         Prem Dhoj Pradhan

·         Dharmaraj Thapa

·         Hira Devi Waiba

·         Tara Devi

·         Aruna Lama

·         Jhalak Man Gandarbha

·         Navneet Aditya Waiba

·         Prakash Saput

·         Pashupati Sharma

·         Bisnu Majhi

 

12. How has Nepali music been affected by globalization?

Globalization has had a significant impact on Nepali music, particularly in the last few decades. The advent of new technologies and the opening up of global markets has led to the dissemination of Nepali music beyond its traditional boundaries and has facilitated the exchange of musical ideas and practices with the rest of the world. One of the significant effects of globalization on Nepali music has been the exposure of Nepali musicians and their music to international audiences.

13. How do Nepali musicians earn a living?

Live performances: Nepali musicians perform at various events, such as weddings, cultural festivals, and concerts, and get paid for their performances.

Studio recordings: Nepali musicians also earn money by recording songs in studios for other artists.

Teaching: Many Nepali artists also earn a living by teaching music to students, they provide music classes privately, in music schools, and in schools and colleges.

Sponsorships and endorsements: Popular Nepali musicians can earn money through sponsorships and endorsements from brands and companies that want to associate themselves with their music.

Online streaming and sales: Nowadays, Nepali musicians have also been able to earn money through online streaming and sales of their music on digital platforms such as YouTube, Spotify, and iTunes.

Busking: Busking has gained popularity in Nepal, particularly in Patan and Basantapur areas, providing musicians with a good source of income. By performing on the streets, musicians can create a more intimate and genuine connection with their audience while earning a livelihood.

14. What are some popular Nepali rock bands?

Name of most popular rock band of Nepal:

·         Albatross

·         1974 AD

·         The Shadows Nepal

·         Cobweb

·         Robin and the New Revolution

·         Sabin Rai and the Pharaoh

·         Anuprastha

·         The Edge Band

 

15. Who are some famous Nepali hip hop artists?

·         Yama Buddha (Anil Adhikari)

·         VTEN (Samir Ghising)

·         Manas Ghale

·         Uniq Poet (Utsaha Joshi)

·         Mc Flo (Anurag Sharma)

·         Balen (Balendra Shah)

·         Girish Khatiwada

·         Laure (Aashish Rana)

·         Aka Lil Buddha (Sacar Adhikari)

16. What is the state of Nepali music education?

Nepal has a rich musical tradition and heritage, but the state of music education in Nepal is relatively poor. While music is a fundamental part of Nepali culture, it is not given the same importance in education as other subjects. There are limited opportunities for formal music education in Nepal, particularly outside of the Kathmandu valley. Most music education is provided through private music schools such as Kathmandu Jazz Conservatory, Nepal Music Center, Surshala Music Academy Nepal etc, which can be expensive and often only accessible to those who can afford it.

Despite these challenges, there is a growing interest in Nepali music both within the country and internationally. With increased investment in music education and more opportunities for training and professional development, it is possible that the state of music education in Nepal could improve in the future.

17. How has technology affected the production and distribution of Nepali music?

Technology has had a significant impact on the production and distribution of Nepali music. In recent years, there has been a notable shift from traditional forms of music distribution to digital distribution through online platforms and streaming services. This has allowed for easier and faster access to Nepali music for listeners all around the world.

Due to the accessibility of reasonably priced music production software and equipment, a considerable number of Nepali musicians and producers are now capable of generating top-notch recordings from their personal residences or small studios. As a result, there has been a surge in the amount of autonomous artists and producers within Nepal's music industry.

Social media has also played a vital role in the promotion and distribution of Nepali music. Platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and Facebook have enabled Nepali musicians to reach wider audiences, and many Nepali songs have gone viral on these platforms.

 

18. What are some popular Nepali songs about social justice? 

There are many songs related to social justice and social issues in Nepal. Here are some popular ones.

·         Gaun Gaun Bata Utha (Ramesh and Rayan)

·         Sambodhan (1974Ad)

·         K Pais Nepali Kera (The Shadows Band)

·         Shakambari (Prakash Saput)

·         Mero Pani Haina Ra Yo Desh (Prakash Saput)

19. What is the future of Nepali music?

The future of Nepali music is promising as there is a growing interest in Nepali music both within Nepal and internationally. With advancements in technology and increased accessibility to music education, Nepali musicians and producers have more opportunities than ever before to create and distribute their music to a global audience.

In recent times, there has been an emergence of a trend where traditional Nepali music is blended with contemporary styles and sounds. This has resulted in the inception of novel and exceptional Nepali music genres that are captivating a broader audience not only in Nepal but also worldwide.

Another trend that has come to light is the upsurge of independent artists and labels. They are challenging the monopoly of established record labels in the Nepali music industry, thus creating more chances for budding musicians to display their skills and reach a new audience.

In the music industry of Nepal, there is a recent trend where independent artists and labels are becoming more prominent, offering chances for new musicians to display their skills and reach out to a wider audience. This shift is disrupting the control of established record companies and creating additional pathways for aspiring artists.

20. What are the best universities or colleges to study music?

·         Kathmandu University School of Arts (KU)

·         Ratna Rajya Laxmi Campus (R. R College) 

·         Padma Kanya Multiple Campus

·         Saraswati Campus

·         Lalitkala Campus