ISC Class 12 Performing Arts Syllabus 2026-27

The ISC Class 12 Performing Arts syllabus for the academic year 2026-27 is designed by the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) to provide senior secondary students with a comprehensive, structured pathway through the disciplines of Music, Dance, and Drama. This page covers the complete curriculum framework, unit-wise content, examination pattern, practical components, and marking scheme for all subjects under the Performing Arts category, enabling students, teachers, and parents to plan the academic year effectively.

The Performing Arts subjects at the ISC level are recognised as full-fledged elective disciplines that carry equal academic weight alongside core sciences, commerce, and humanities. Students opting for these subjects are evaluated through theory and practical examinations, ensuring a balanced development of conceptual understanding and performance skills.

Overview of ISC Performing Arts Subjects for Class 12 (2026-27)

The ISC Board offers the following subjects under the Performing Arts group for Class 12 students. Each subject is governed by a detailed syllabus document issued by CISCE and is examined at the end of the academic year through both written theory papers and practical or viva-voce assessments.

Each subject listed above has its own theory paper and practical examination. Students are required to register for one subject from the Performing Arts group, and preparation should be guided strictly by the official CISCE syllabus document for 2026-27.

ISC Class 12 Music Syllabus 2026-27

Music at the ISC Class 12 level is offered in three streams: Indian Music Hindustani, Indian Music Carnatic, and Western Music. The syllabus for each stream is distinct and covers the theoretical foundation alongside the practical performance requirements expected at the senior secondary level.

Indian Music Hindustani (Code 840)

Theory Paper

The theory examination for Hindustani Music is designed to assess the student's knowledge of classical ragas, talas, compositional forms, and the history of Indian classical music. The paper covers topics such as the identification and elaboration of prescribed ragas, tala structures and their practical applications, the characteristics of Gharanas, and notable composers and performers.

Total Marks: 100

Theory: 70 marks

Practical: 30 marks

Practical Examination

Students are required to demonstrate proficiency in the performance of prescribed ragas, bandishes, and tala cycles. The practical examination evaluates accuracy of swaras, laya, improvisation ability, and overall presentation. A viva-voce component may also be included to assess theoretical understanding in context.

Indian Music Carnatic (Code 841)

The Carnatic Music syllabus covers the prescribed ragas and talas of the Carnatic tradition, including kritis, varnas, and related compositional forms. The theory component includes the study of sruti, swara, raga lakshanas, and tala shadanga, while the practical examination focuses on performance and knowledge of compositions by prominent composers such as the Trinity of Carnatic Music.

Key Topics in Theory

•        Raga Lakshanas of prescribed ragas

•        Tala shadanga and common tala cycles

•        Compositional forms: Kriti, Varna, Tillana

•        Biographies of prominent Carnatic composers

•        Glossary of Carnatic music terminology

Western Music (Code 842)

The Western Music syllabus is structured to develop students' understanding of staff notation, harmony, counterpoint, music history, and aural skills. The theory paper includes topics such as musical form and analysis, orchestration, and the history of Western classical music across major periods from the Baroque era to the Contemporary period.

Theory Paper Topics

•        Staff notation, clefs, key signatures, and time signatures

•        Scales: major, minor, chromatic, modal

•        Intervals, chords, and chord progressions

•        Counterpoint and harmonic analysis

•        Musical forms: Sonata, Symphony, Concerto, Suite

•        History of Western music from Baroque to Contemporary

•        Aural tests and sight-reading

ISC Class 12 Dance Syllabus 2026-27

Dance at the ISC Class 12 level is offered in four classical forms: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Manipuri, and Odissi. The syllabus for each form has been developed with guidance from the relevant cultural and academic bodies and is structured to give students a thorough grounding in both the theoretical underpinnings and practical execution of their chosen dance form.

Bharatanatyam (Code 850)

The Bharatanatyam syllabus covers the evolution and history of the dance form, including its roots in the Natya Shastra and Devadasi tradition. The theory component addresses abhinaya, hasta mudras, adavus, raga and tala fundamentals relevant to Bharatanatyam compositions, and the contributions of major gurus and performers who shaped the contemporary form of the dance.

Practical Requirements

•        Performance of prescribed adavus in prescribed talas

•        Demonstration of hastas: asamyuta and samyuta hasthas

•        Presentation of a margam sequence or selected items

•        Nritta, nritya, and natya elements

•        Understanding and application of abhinaya

Kathak (Code 851)

The Kathak syllabus traces the evolution of the dance from its temple tradition through the Mughal period to its current form in the Lucknow and Jaipur Gharanas. The theory paper covers the distinctive features of each Gharana, compositional elements such as tatkaar, chakkardar paran, and tihai, and the relationship between Kathak and the tabla and sitar traditions.

Manipuri (Code 852)

The Manipuri dance syllabus focuses on the Ras Lila tradition and its devotional context, the Lai Haraoba ritual dance forms, and the technical vocabulary unique to the Manipuri tradition. Students are expected to understand the costumes, instruments, and compositional forms specific to this school of classical dance.

Odissi (Code 853)

The Odissi syllabus covers the historical development of the dance from the Mahari and Gotipua traditions, the contribution of the Sangeet Natak Akademi in reviving the form, and the technical grammar of Odissi including tribhangi, chowk, and the distinctive sculptures of the Konark Sun Temple as iconographic references.

ISC Class 12 Drama Syllabus 2026-27 (Code 860)

Drama at the ISC Class 12 level is structured to develop the student's understanding of theatre history, dramatic theory, script analysis, stagecraft, and performance. The subject encourages an appreciation of both Indian and Western theatrical traditions and aims to develop confident, creative, and critical performers and theatre practitioners.

Theory Paper

The theory paper covers the history of theatre from ancient Greek and Roman drama through medieval European theatre, the Renaissance, and into modern and contemporary forms. The Indian theatre tradition is also covered in depth, including Sanskrit drama, folk theatre, Parsi theatre, and modern Indian drama in various regional languages.

Unit 1: History of Theatre

•        Greek and Roman theatre: origins, structure, key playwrights

•        Medieval theatre: Mystery, Miracle, and Morality plays

•        Renaissance theatre: Elizabethan drama, Shakespeare

•        Modern theatre: Naturalism, Expressionism, Epic Theatre

•        Contemporary theatre: Theatre of the Absurd, Physical Theatre

Unit 2: Indian Theatre Traditions

•        Sanskrit drama: Natyashastra, Kalidasa, Bhasa

•        Classical forms: Kutiyattam, Yakshagana, Kathakali as theatre

•        Folk theatre: Jatra, Tamasha, Nautanki, Bhavai

•        Modern Indian drama and notable playwrights

Unit 3: Stagecraft and Production

•        Stage types: Proscenium, Thrust, Arena, Black Box

•        Lighting design: types of stage lights, lighting states

•        Sound design and its role in production

•        Set design, costume, and make-up for the stage

•        Stage management and production roles

Unit 4: Script Analysis and Dramatic Theory

•        Reading and analysing a dramatic text

•        Dramatic structure: exposition, rising action, climax, resolution

•        Character analysis, subtext, and motivation

•        Key theories: Stanislavski, Brecht, Artaud

Practical Examination

The practical examination in Drama requires students to participate in or direct a short theatrical production or performance piece. Assessment criteria include vocal projection, physical expression, characterisation, ensemble work, and awareness of the audience. Students may also be required to submit a production logbook or director's notebook depending on the assessment format specified by the school.

ISC Performing Arts Marking Scheme and Examination Pattern 2026-27

The marking scheme for all Performing Arts subjects under the ISC Class 12 examination follows the standard CISCE pattern, dividing the total marks between the theory paper (written examination) and the practical or project component.

The theory paper is typically of 3 hours duration and is evaluated externally by examiners appointed by CISCE. The practical examination is conducted under the supervision of an internal examiner (the subject teacher) and an external examiner appointed by the board. Practical marks are moderated by CISCE before the final result is declared.

Passing Criteria

To pass in a Performing Arts subject, a student must secure a minimum of 35 percent marks in the theory paper and 35 percent in the practical component separately. An overall pass is not sufficient if either component falls below this threshold. Students are also required to have the minimum attendance as prescribed by the school and CISCE regulations.

How to Prepare for ISC Class 12 Performing Arts Examination 2026-27

Preparing effectively for the ISC Class 12 Performing Arts examinations requires a structured approach that balances the theoretical and practical demands of the syllabus. The following guidance is relevant for students across all Performing Arts subjects.

Theory Preparation Strategy

1.     Download and thoroughly read the official CISCE syllabus document for 2026-27 for your specific subject.

2.     Create a topic-wise study plan that allocates adequate time to each unit, paying special attention to history and compositional analysis sections.

3.     Study from CISCE-recommended textbooks and supplementary resources from recognised institutions.

4.     Practice writing detailed answers on topics such as raga descriptions, dance techniques, or theatre history, as the theory paper rewards comprehensive, structured responses.

5.     Review previous years' question papers to understand the question format and the depth of knowledge expected.

6.     Prepare short notes on important composers, performers, gurus, and historical figures relevant to your subject.

Practical Preparation Strategy

7.     Begin practical preparation at the start of the academic year to allow sufficient time for repetition and refinement.

8.     Work consistently with your subject teacher or guru and seek regular feedback on technique, presentation, and accuracy.

9.     Record practice sessions where possible and review recordings to identify areas for improvement.

10.  For Music, focus on accuracy of pitch, rhythm, and the ability to improvise within the framework of prescribed ragas and talas.

11.  For Dance, ensure that both the technical (nritta) and expressive (abhinaya) aspects of performance are equally developed.

12.  For Drama, rehearse thoroughly with your ensemble and ensure familiarity with all aspects of staging, not just your own role.

Frequently Asked Questions: ISC Class 12 Performing Arts Syllabus 2026-27

Is Performing Arts considered a full subject for ISC Class 12?

Yes. All Performing Arts subjects offered under the ISC examination are full elective subjects that carry 100 marks each. They are recognised by universities and colleges for admission purposes in the same way as other elective subjects.

Can a student take more than one Performing Arts subject?

CISCE guidelines govern the combination of subjects a student may take. While some schools may permit a student to take more than one arts subject, the standard practice is to select one Performing Arts subject as part of the elective group. Students should consult the CISCE regulations and their school for specific guidance.

Where can I download the official ISC Performing Arts syllabus for 2026-27?

The official syllabus documents for all ISC Class 12 subjects, including Performing Arts, are available on the CISCE official website at cisce.org. Students and teachers should download the 2026-27 versions specifically, as the syllabus may be revised from year to year.

Is the ISC Performing Arts syllabus the same every year?

The core framework of the ISC Performing Arts syllabus remains largely consistent, but CISCE may introduce modifications, additions, or changes to prescribed compositions, texts, or evaluation patterns in specific years. It is essential to refer to the syllabus document issued for the 2026-27 cycle to ensure preparation is aligned with the current requirements.

How is the practical examination for Drama conducted?

The Drama practical examination is conducted at the school level with the participation of an external examiner from CISCE. Students may be assessed on individual performance, group performance, or a directorial task depending on the specific instructions for that year. Detailed instructions are provided in the examination regulations issued by CISCE.

Note: This page is intended as a comprehensive informational guide. Students and teachers should always refer to the official CISCE syllabus document for the 2026-27 academic year for definitive and binding curriculum details. Syllabus information provided here is based on the standard ISC framework and publicly available CISCE resources.