Until around the 12th century, a standard music style existed all over in India. This was hymns created out of Vedas. However, after the invasion of Mughals, the music in north India got some new notes and it came to be known as Hindustani music.Under Hindustani Music there are seven notes called the ragas which are Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Da, Ni. By arranging these seven notes in different combinations, countless tunes are created by the musician.
Hindustani music is one of the Classical music of India and is gradually getting familiar and appreciated world over. Almost all Indian musical instruments such as the Tanpura, Dholak, Tabla, Sarangi, Sitar, Sarod, flute etc. are used for Hindustani music. Apart from these instruments in the recent times, Guitar and Banjo are also used.
There are many Ustads (Experts) associated with Hindustani Music but one name that will never be forgotten for the exceptional knowledge of Hindustani music is Miyan Tansen. Out of the nine people who formed the Navratnas (Nine Jewels) in Akbar`s court, Tansen was one of them. It is said that once, after Tansen sang Raag Malhar (music to invoke rains) it started to rain.
Hindustani music is composed of Drupad and Khyal style. In the olden times, Drupad was more in use than Khyal however as times changed Khyal contributed equally to the composition of Hindustani music.
In the present day India, Hindustani music is not a common choice of people with western and film music at rise. However, it is interesting to note that some Western musicians and Hindi music directors are using Hindustani music in their compositions.