This paper examines the theoretical boundaries of musical tradition--and the potential factors that inform notions of authenticity--using examples that challenge the integrity of Hindustani sastriya sangita, the classical music of North India. My work calls on recent thinking concerning Peircean semiotics to analyze such elements as melodic materials, instrumentation, sonic quality, and performance etiquette. The central question is: What determines whether a musical innovation is a creative continuation of tradition or a destructive force that shortens the lifespan of the tradition?