Taxonomy of gesture-sound relationships in Manual Interactions with Imaginary Objects (MIIO) in Hindustani Dhrupad vocal improvisation

Abstract

Over the years, multiple taxonomies have emerged to categorize the diverse range of movements, particularly those linked to music, with a wealth of literature in music performance exploring this topic. Despite extensive discussions, conflicting opinions persist, and a consensus on a single taxonomy remains elusive, highlighting the intricate nature of movement types. In Hindustani (North Indian Classical) Dhrupad vocal music, singers often appear performing manual interactions with imaginary objects, referred to as "MIIOs" (Manual Interactions with Imaginary Objects) in this study. This paper revisits existing taxonomies in respect to gesture-sound relationships, examining perspectives in classifying MIIOs within these frameworks. Based on the results, it underscores the challenge of classifying MIIOs into these established, emphasizing their unique status in the realm of music-related movements.

Keywords

• gesture-sound relationships
• taxonomy
• systematic musicology
• hindustani vocal music
• ethnomusicology
• embodied music cognition