1. Tonality: Western music is harmonic, with chords and harmonic progressions building the foundation of many compositions. Indian classical music, on the other hand, focuses on melody and rhythm. Although harmony and chords are not overlooked, the emphasis is on melodic development and ornamentation (known as meends and gamaks).
2. Rhythms: Tala, a intricate rhythmic cycle, serves as the foundation of Indian music. Compositions are structured in specific talas, and musicians utilize a variety of time signatures and rhythmic patterns. Western music, despite its rhythmic complexities, uses more stable and consistent meters and time signatures.
3. Tuning System: Western music is composed in a tempered system, which divides the octave into twelve equal half-steps known as semitones. Indian music is composed in the just intonation system, which has smaller microtonal intervals (srutis) that give different melodic tones their distinct flavour and character.
4. Music Theory: Indian music is rooted in the ancient concept of raga, which is a melodic framework defining a collection of notes and their melodic interactions. Western classical music is influenced by music theory, which establishes guidelines and principles for constructing melodic, harmonic, and rhythmic structures.
5. Improvisation: Improvisation is a vital aspect of Indian classical music performances, where musicians freely explore and expand upon the raga and tala. In Western classical music, improvisation is present, but it is more confined and occurs within the limits of the written musical score.
6. Role of lyrics: Indian classical music performances frequently feature vocalists who not only sing but also utilize their voices as instruments, employing melismatic vocals and sliding pitches to create distinct expressions. Western classical music emphasizes textual articulation, with singers prioritizing accurate pronunciation and clarity of the lyrics.
7. Use of instruments: Indian classical music has a variety of traditional instruments, such as the sitar, tabla, sarod, flute, and santoor. Western classical music includes classical instruments such as the piano, violins, cellos, and orchestra. Both employ varied instruments, however their sounds and timbres differ significantly.
8. Cultural Significance: Indian classical music is intrinsically linked to ancient religious and spiritual traditions and has ceremonial values. Western classical music, while still influenced by religious traditions, has diversified into a wide range of genres and functions, including concert music, symphonies, operas, and film music.
It is critical to remember that these are broad generalizations and that there may be exceptions and overlaps in both Western and Indian musical practices. These distinctions represent the essence of each traditions' approach to music and its expression.