Alaap is a musical term used in Indian classical music, referring to the introductory section of a performance. It is characterized by a slow, free-flowing exploration of a raga, allowing the musician to express the mood and essence of the melody without rhythmic constraints. The alaap sets the stage for the more structured parts of the performance. Typically performed on instruments like the sitar or sarod, or sung by vocalists, alaap serves as a way to engage the audience and create a connection with the raga. It often transitions into more rhythmic sections, such as gat or bandish, enhancing the overall musical experience.