CHARACTERISTICS OF A COMPOSITION
i. There is usually a very short melodic pause before commencement of each section (for example, between pallavi and anupallavi).
ii. At the end of each section, the pallavi is repeated. However, varnams that conclude with the charanam are exceptions to this rule.
iii. Sometimes, a line of a composition may be repeated with minute or major variations called sangatis. These developments are fixed and are rendered in a particular sequence, which gives the composition an organized
structure. Each variation is usually rendered twice.
iv. The signature of the composer (and sometimes the name of the raga too) is intelligently included in the lyric in manycompositions.
APPRECIATING COMPOSITIONS
Compositions have influenced Carnatic music no end. They have bestowed upon the system a grand structure and also made it a compelling art form. A composition can be a medium for a composer to display his melodic, rhythmic, intellectual, lyrical skills and knowledge. It is also a medium to encapsulate the beauty of the raga. Several creators have composed spontaneously on various issues, using their compositions as a channel to convey messages to mankind. Great composers have composed pieces that are measured and weighty, some fast and exhilarating, and many in an attractive medium tempo as well.
Most Carnatic listeners feel stirred when they listen to classy compositions rendered by eminent artistes. Some are moved by lyrical felicity, while many others seek melodic, rhythmic or spiritual contentment. A masterly composition fulfils the various expectations of such a heterogeneous group. In fact, it would be no exaggeration to state that one of the focal reasons for the allure of Carnatic music is compositions of great masters.
Those used to systems with more improvisation than compositions may need to develop a taste for the rigor and structure inherent in compositions. It is vital to approach compositions with an open mind in order to be enriched by their wide-ranging splendour. One can try to follow the movement of each section of a song as it unfolds, and also perceive how melodic variations add another dimension to it. Keeping time (tala) alongside the artistes, as the piece is rendered, will add to the listening experience.