The classical music of the India-Pakistan-Bangladesh subcontinent is one of the new ancient art forms still widely practised today. In recent years it has been much appreciated all over the world. This book, written by Indian writers, serves to deepen that appreciation to understanding. It covers the philosophy and history of Indian music clearly and concisely and relates its growth and development to social, cultural, religious and political factors. India's musical contacts with the East and West are also discussed and their value assessed.