Octave in Music | Asurer Suralok Jatra Series

In the vast world of music, the intricate weaving of melody rests upon a fundamental structure known as the octave, or saptak. Quite simply, the word saptak means “seven”. In the terminology of classical music, it refers to the collection of seven principal notes. Yet, beneath these seven basic notes lie a further five notes which together complete the full tonal framework.

Structure and Arrangement of the Octave

A saptak is primarily composed of the seven natural notes: Sa, Re, Ga, Ma, Pa, Dha, Ni. However, in musical theory, each of these notes has neighbouring variations, resulting in an additional five altered notes:

• Four flattened (Komal) notes: Re, Ga, Dha, Ni
• One sharpened (Teevra) note: Ma

Thus, combining the seven natural notes with the five altered notes (flattened and sharpened), we arrive at a total of twelve notes that together form a complete octave. In Western music, this set of twelve pitches is simply referred to as an octave.

Types of Octaves

In practical performance—whether in vocal music or on instruments such as the harmonium—three principal octaves are commonly used. These are distinguished according to the pitch level or depth of the notes:

1. Mandra Saptak (Lower Octave)
This is the lowest register of the octave. The notes here are deep, resonant, and weighty in character. In notation, it is indicated by placing a dot beneath the note (for example: Sạ).

2. Madhya Saptak (Middle Octave)
This is the primary register used in most singing and instrumental playing. The notes lie at a natural and comfortable pitch range. In notation, these notes are written without any additional marking.

3. Tara Saptak (Upper Octave)
This is the higher register of the octave. The notes here are brighter, sharper, and more energetic. In notation, it is marked by placing a dot above the note (for example: Sȧ).

Additional Octaves

In larger or more sophisticated instruments—such as the sitar, sarod, or piano—two further registers may be found beyond the commonly used three octaves:

• Ati-Mandra Saptak (Extra-Low Octave): notes deeper than the lower octave.
• Ati-Tara Saptak (Extra-High Octave): notes higher than the upper octave.

However, in ordinary vocal music or with most commonly used instruments, the use of these extended octaves remains quite limited.

A Quick Overview of the Octaves

See more:

• Asurer Surlokjatra (Index)