In a typical vocal Carnatic music concert, the role of the violin is that of an accompanying role. The main, most basic responsibilities of the violinist are as follows:
1. Play key phrases during the vocalist's alapana (raga improvisation) which enhance the quality of the rendition. Usually, this is done by repeating, either in part or in full, the melodic phrases of the vocalist.
2. Play an individual alapana after the vocalist has sung.
3. Play along with the vocalist during the rendition of a song. This usually works better when the violinist knows the composition which is being sung. However, even without knowing the composition, it is possible to provide suitable accompaniment.
4. Take turns with the vocalist during improvisation - niraval and swara kalpana
1. Play key phrases during the vocalist's alapana (raga improvisation) which enhance the quality of the rendition. Usually, this is done by repeating, either in part or in full, the melodic phrases of the vocalist.
2. Play an individual alapana after the vocalist has sung.
3. Play along with the vocalist during the rendition of a song. This usually works better when the violinist knows the composition which is being sung. However, even without knowing the composition, it is possible to provide suitable accompaniment.
4. Take turns with the vocalist during improvisation - niraval and swara kalpana
