An introduction to the Takadimi method and a curriculum framework for its application in collegiate choral rehearsals

The Takadimi method, inspired by South Indian Carnatic music, is used to teach rhythm in classroom settings. This project proposes a curriculum framework for incorporating Takadimi into collegiate choral rehearsals, along with well-known solfege methods for melody, to increase the musical literacy of choral singers.

There are two main elements contained in this project. The first is a brief overview of the history of the Takadimi method from its origins, which are derived from a method used in south India, to its use and application today as a rhythm pedagogy method. Takadimi can be applied widely to many different age groups and musicians, but it suffers from relative newness and instructors not knowing how valuable it can be to their students as a method for sight reading rhythms.

The second element in this project is a new curriculum framework using the Takadimi method as its foundation. The new curriculum framework is specifically designed to teach collegiate choral singers basic musical literacy skills. The curriculum framework accomplishes its designed goal by using time only in the choral rehearsal classroom and does not rely on any further outside instruction or other classes.

This project addresses a need for such direct instruction due to the varying ability levels and previous musical training that collegiate choral programs are seeing in their students leaving high school.