From imitating animal sounds to igniting a fire with his song, Tansen's genius was unmatched. His voice was so much in demand that wily patrons used it to gain political advantage. Such a talent could win loyal friends and a beautiful wife but it could also make others viciously jealous. In Emperor Akbar's court, he was a jewel more precious than the diamonds and pearls that were showered on him and he remains to this day a shining symbol of classical Indian music. Tansen was born into a musical family during the reign of the Mughal king, Akbar (16th century CE). He was accepted as disciple by an eminent maestro of the times. Over his life Tansen is credited with contributing a large number of original compositions to the north- Indian ('Hindustani') school of music.