Ganamrutha Varna Malika/A.S. Panchapakesa Iyer. Chennai, Ganamrutha Prachuram, 2002, xxii, 122 p., $11 (pbk).

From the preface: "Varnas are the foundation in the art of Karnatic music. By practicing varnas in the established manner one gains perfection and thorough knowledge in Ragas, Swaras, Talas and a controlled voice culture. The most important and difficult part in Karnatic music are unfailing control over talas, while rendering Niravals and Kalpana swaras. To obtain success in this regard, it is highly essential to practice every varna atleast in two kalas (Vilamba and Madhyama). Such practice would definitely afford the required voice culture, while rendering Niravals followed by Kalpana swaras, without encountering any difficulty."