The Chakra System
The origins of the seven chakras are deeply rooted in Eastern spiritual traditions. The Chakras are considered the basis of human existence and the human chakra system is commonly accepted as seven energy ‘centres’ stretching physically from the spine to the crown of the head. This system is also representative of disparate aspects of life, and its function might be described in various terms encompassing the psychological, physical, energetic and spiritual. In keeping with Hindu traditions, the Sanskrit chakra title for each of the seven energy centres is often used alongside its Western name.
Healers use the chakras as a way to gauge energy levels in patients; they then set about rectifying those levels using various healing methods. The word ‘chakra’ translates to a ‘wheel’ in Sanskrit, and the chakras might be considered similar to wheels of free-flowing positive energy. The concept of ‘healing’ inspired this work as I feel this element is present in so much music, particularly in light of the many challenges and instability that we face in the world today.
Chakra Suite
The Chakra Suite was written in July 2020 for clarinettist Nadia Barbosa and pianist Yuki Negishi, who have recorded the suite beautifully (you can hear each movement by clicking on the links below). I enjoy composing music for friends and colleagues, and this suite was great fun to write.
This piece has seven movements, one for each chakra, with each representing the character of that particular chakra; from the bright solidity of the Root Chakra, and the pulsating heart-beat of the Heart Chakra, through to the frenetic ‘chatty’ quality of the Throat Chakra, and the finality and defiance of the Crown Chakra. I hope the music offers a brief snapshot of this fascinating ancient energy system. Each movement is named after its Sanskrit title.
One might describe the character and mood of these fairly short pieces as rather ethereal, atmospheric, and (I hope!) harmonically interesting, although they stop short of being what might be considered ‘dissonant’. The suite lasts around 16 or 17 minutes in total, and would be perfect for a final recital or exam programme, but it’s also possible to play the pieces separately. The level of these pieces might be considered from ABRSM Grade 6 – ARSM diploma level, depending on the complexity of the particular movement.
I’m delighted that the Chakra Suite has now been published by Clifton Edition. This small independent publishing company is owned and run by Mark and Pat Goddard: founded in 2023, it specialises in classical music, with a focus on educational music. Many of the titles were previously published by Spartan Press, Useful Music, Phylloscopus Publications and others: Stainer & Bell are the Clifton Edition’s distributor.
For me, it was important to have the music published as I had previously been approached by several clarinettists, especially those graduating from degree programmes in various universities and music schools in the USA, wanting a piece for clarinet and piano written by a female composer.
Muladhara – Root Chakra
Svadhisthana – Sacral Chakra
Manipura – Solar Plexus Chakra
Anahata – Heart Chakra
Vishuddha – Throat Chakra
Ajna – Third-eye Chakra
Sahasrara – Crown Chakra
Purchase the score of the Chakra Suite by clicking here.
You can hear more of my compositions, here.
