Dual consciousness and unconsciousness: The structure and spirituality of polymetric tabla compositions

This chapter considers the question of the extent to which composers can manipulate the conscious and unconscious experience of performers and listeners. It addresses a subset of solo tabla compositions by Suresh Talwalkar called mūrchana racanā, meaning ‘compositions that make one bewildered, insensible, or unconscious’. These compositions are so named due to Talwalkar’s belief that their musical structure, based on a complex polymetre, can facilitate altered states of consciousness (ASC). The chapter analyses these rhythmic structures and their possible effects on consciousness, distinguishing between the experiences of listeners and performers. It also discusses how narratives and experiences of ‘mūrchana consciousness’ draw upon pre-existing cultural and philosophical beliefs underlying the North Indian classical music performance context. It concludes that musical structure, performance setting, and metaphysical beliefs all play essential roles in shaping unique experiences of musically altered consciousness.