Published Paper Details:

Bow control and fingering accuracy are fundamental technical competencies in Carnatic violin performance, directly influencing tonal clarity, rhythmic precision, and r?ga bh?va. Traditional practice methods, while musically rich, often lack a standardized framework for systematic speed progression and measurable technical optimization. This study proposes a structured practice system for Carnatic violin based on the Nikola 3-6-9 speed principle, integrated with a r?ga-centric and step-wise training model. The proposed system organizes practice into progressive steps--Sarali swarams, Janta swarams, Alankarams, Dh?tu swarams, and upper and lower sth?yi exercises--implemented across four foundational Carnatic r?gas: Mayamalavagowla, Shankarabharanam, Kalyani, and Kharaharapriya. Each practice step is executed using a controlled speed escalation strategy, wherein first speed is practiced three times, second speed six times, and third speed nine times, ensuring gradual motor adaptation and consistency in bowing and fingering movements. An experimental study is designed involving intermediate-level Carnatic violin students, where technical parameters such as bow stability, note articulation accuracy, speed consistency, and tonal uniformity are observed and analyzed over a fixed training period. Comparative evaluation between traditional practice routines and the Nikola 3-6-9 structured approach demonstrates significant improvements in bow coordination, reduced fingering errors, and enhanced control at higher speeds. The findings suggest that the Nikola 3-6-9 structured practice system offers an effective pedagogical model for optimizing technical precision in Carnatic violin training. By combining traditional r?ga-based exercises with a disciplined speed framework, the study contributes a scalable and replicable methodology that can enhance both pedagogy and performance practice in Carnatic string music education. KEYWORDS: Carnatic Violin; Bow Control; Fingering Accuracy; Nikola 3-6-9 Technique; R?ga-Based Practice; Step-Wise Training Model; Speed Optimization; Violin Pedagogy; Technical Skill Development; Carnatic Music Education