The song Balleilakka by A.R. Ramen alongside being a masterful use of Hindustani stylings, voice, and instrumentation, is a piece very dear to my heart. This piece was the first of eight I had the opportunity of performing with the WSMA Highschool State Honors Choir in Madison and, at the time, it was the most challenging piece I had ever tackled. Though learning the text pronunciation and meaning was difficult, understanding how to replicate the tone quality and vocal technique of Indian vocalists was the biggest feat. Contrary to the classical techniques I’ve studied the majority of my life, Hindustani singing requires a technique that is similar to speaking, with the larynx rested, a nasal placement, and little to no vibrato (though the use of Taan is similar) in order to create a clear, bright sound that often has more prevalent overtones. Getting to learn and perform this song was such an enriching experience, especially when the choir combined with the instrumentation. Wonderful piece!