About IGNOU BPAFHM – B.A. (Performing Arts) Hindustani Music (Hons.)
This undergraduate programme focuses on providing a professional foundation in the classical traditions of North Indian music, covering both vocal and instrumental techniques. It prepares learners for careers in music performance, teaching, cultural research, and roles within the arts and media industry by blending traditional practice with modern academic study.
The curriculum is carefully structured to move from the basics of swara and laya to the complexities of various ragas and talas. It covers historical developments in music, from the ancient Vedic period to contemporary styles, ensuring students understand the cultural roots of their art. Studying these subjects is vital for anyone wanting to master the nuances of performance while also gaining the theoretical knowledge required to explain and document musical traditions effectively. The inclusion of multi-disciplinary courses ensures that music students also develop a broad understanding of other academic fields, making them well-rounded graduates ready for the modern job market.
Upon completing this programme, a student will be able to perform various ragas with technical precision and emotional depth. They will gain the skills to transcribe musical compositions, analyze historical texts, and understand the science of sound as applied to Indian instruments. Beyond performance, graduates will be equipped to work as music critics, cultural administrators, or independent artists. The training also builds discipline and focus, which are highly valued in any creative or professional role. By the final year, students who choose the Honours track will have the research skills necessary to explore specific areas of musicology or performance practice in greater detail.
IGNOU BPAFHM Syllabus Highlights
The table below provides a quick overview of the essential administrative and academic details for the B.A. (Performing Arts) Hindustani Music (Hons.) programme under the current FYUP framework.
| Academic Attribute | Details |
| Programme Name | B.A. (Performing Arts) Hindustani Music (Hons.) |
| Programme Code | BPAFHM |
| Minimum Duration | 3 Years / 4 Years (Hons) |
| Maximum Duration | 6 Years / 8 Years (As per FYUP norms) |
| Total Credits | 160 Credits (for 4-year Hons) |
| Offering School | School of Performing & Visual Arts |
IGNOU BPAFHM Course Structure
The programme follows a credit-based semester system aligned with the National Education Policy. Students progress through eight semesters, with each year focusing on specific levels of mastery in Hindustani music and related academic disciplines.
| Academic Year / Semester | Nature of Courses | Credits |
| First Year (Sem I & II) | Major Core, Minor, Multi-Disciplinary, AEC | 40-44 Credits |
| Second Year (Sem III & IV) | Major Core, Minor, Skill Enhancement, VAC | 40-44 Credits |
| Third Year (Sem V & VI) | Major Core, Minor, Industrial Training | 40-44 Credits |
| Fourth Year (Sem VII & VIII) | Advanced Core, Research / Dissertation | 40 Credits |
IGNOU BPAFHM Syllabus: 2026
The following tables outline the distribution of course categories and credit weights as specified in the IGNOU BPAFHM Syllabus for the 2026 academic session.
First Year (Semester I & II)
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| Major Core | Theory and Practice of Hindustani Music I | 6 |
| Minor | Basics of Performing Arts | 4 |
| Multi-Disciplinary | Course from other streams | 3 |
| AEC | Environmental Studies / Languages | 4 |
Second Year (Semester III & IV)
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| Major Core | Advanced Ragas and Composition | 6 |
| Minor | Interdisciplinary Music Studies | 4 |
| SEC | Music Production or Sound Engineering | 2 |
| VAC | Digital Literacy / Ethics | 2 |
Third Year (Semester V & VI)
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| Major Core | History of Indian Music (Medieval to Modern) | 8 |
| Major Practical | Stage Performance and Viva-Voce | 8 |
| Industrial Training | Internship in Music/Cultural Sector | 4 |
Fourth Year (Semester VII & VIII – Hons.)
| Course Code | Course Name | Credits |
| Advanced Core | Aesthetics and Music Criticism | 12 |
| Research | Dissertation / Field Project | 12 |
Total Credits: 160 Credits (Approximate for 4 Years)
IGNOU BPAFHM Credit System
The credit system in this programme is designed to measure the time and effort required to master both the art and science of music. In the IGNOU BPAFHM Syllabus, one credit is equal to 30 hours of total study time, which includes attending online or offline counseling, practicing your instrument or vocals, and reading the provided study blocks. For a typical 4-credit course, you are expected to put in 120 hours of work across the semester. The total credits for the B.A. (Performing Arts) Hindustani Music (Hons.) degree are distributed among major core subjects, minor electives, and skill-based workshops. If you happen to fail a particular course, you do not need to re-enroll in the entire year; you can simply pay the examination fee and reappear for that specific course in the next term-end examination cycle.
Important Note for Students
⚠️ The syllabus reflects the 2026 academic framework. IGNOU may revise course contents at its discretion. Always verify the latest syllabus at ignou.ac.in before starting your studies.
Also Read
More resources for BPAFHM students:
Frequently Asked Questions – IGNOU BPAFHM Syllabus
Legal & Academic Disclaimer
This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially connected to IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University). The syllabus information provided here is for academic reference only and may be subject to revision by IGNOU. Always verify the latest course structure at ignou.ac.in.
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✔ Last updated: April 2026
