Gat literally means "to move" or "to proceed." In music, it implies the movement of melody from one note to another. A gat typically consists of several musical phrases or passages (called "toda" or "tukda") that outline the melodic contours, characteristic phrases, and essential notes (vadi, samvadi) of the raga.
During a performance, musicians embellish and improvise upon the gat while adhering to the raga's melodic framework. The gat provides a point of reference and ensures that the improvisations remain anchored within the raga's melodic identity.
Gat can be of different types based on their specific structures and styles. Some common forms of gat include:
Vilambit Gat: A slow-tempo gat used in the initial section of a performance to establish the mood and introduce the raga's melodic characteristics.
Madhya Gat: Moderate-tempo gat that allows for further exploration and expansion of the raga's melodic phrases.
Drut Gat: Fast-tempo gat characterized by intricate rhythmic patterns and rapid melodic passages, showcasing the virtuosity of the musicians.
Gat playing is a crucial skill for North Indian classical musicians, requiring a deep understanding of the raga's intricacies and the ability to seamlessly navigate its melodic landscape. The development of a gat, from its composition to its refinement through performance, plays a significant role in shaping the raga's identity and its interpretation by musicians.