Indian Music — Set 3
Arts & Culture · भारतीय संगीत · Questions 21–30 of 60
Which musical instrument did Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia make famous globally?
Correct Answer: A. Bansuri (Flute)
Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia is a master of the Bansuri, an Indian side-blown bamboo flute. He developed innovative blowing techniques to produce a rich and varied sound. The Bansuri is deeply associated with Lord Krishna in Indian mythology.
In Hindustani music, the classification of Ragas into ten parent scales is known as the system of?
Correct Answer: B. Thaat
The Thaat system was standardized by Pandit Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande in the early 20th century. It groups Hindustani Ragas into ten basic frameworks based on their note structure. Examples of Thaats include Bilawal, Kalyan, and Bhairavi.
What is the name of the traditional bowed string instrument used for accompaniment and solo performances in Hindustani music?
Correct Answer: C. Sarangi
The Sarangi is known for its ability to closely imitate the nuances of the human voice. It typically has three main playing strings and a large number of sympathetic strings. Historically, it was a vital instrument for accompanying vocalists in classical and semi-classical genres.
Which style of music is predominantly found in the Baul community of Bengal?
Correct Answer: C. Baul Sangeet
Baul music is a form of mystical folk music that emphasizes internal spirituality over religious rituals. The Bauls are wandering minstrels who often play the 'Ektara', a single-stringed instrument. Their songs were highly influential on the philosophy and poetry of Rabindranath Tagore.
Who among the following was a legendary Dhrupad singer and one of the 'Navaratnas' in Emperor Akbar's court?
Correct Answer: A. Tansen
Tansen is perhaps the most influential figure in the history of Hindustani classical music. He is credited with creating many foundational Ragas, such as Mian Ki Malhar and Darbari Kanada. His descendants and followers established the Gwalior and Senia Gharanas.
The term 'Vadi' in the context of a Raga refers to?
Correct Answer: A. The most important note
The Vadi is the 'King' note of a Raga that is played or sung most frequently and emphatically. It defines the character and dominant emotion of the melody. The second most important note is technically called the 'Samvadi'.
Which of the following is a traditional folk music style of Maharashtra often performed by groups?
Correct Answer: B. Lavani
Lavani is a popular folk genre that combines music, poetry, and dance, traditionally performed to the beats of a Dholki. It is known for its powerful rhythm and often addresses social or romantic themes. While often viewed as a dance, its musical structure is a distinct part of Maharashtrian heritage.
The 'Khayal' style of singing is characterized by which of the following?
Correct Answer: D. Highly ornamental and imaginative improvisation
The correct answer is 'Highly ornamental and imaginative improvisation'. Khayal literally means 'imagination' or 'thought' in Persian. It allows the vocalist more freedom to improvise using Taans and Bol-Alaps compared to the rigid Dhrupad style. Today, Khayal is the most popular vocal genre in Hindustani classical music.
Which ancient string instrument is associated with Goddess Saraswati and has two large gourds?
Correct Answer: D. Saraswati Veena
The Saraswati Veena is a noble plucked string instrument essential to the Carnatic music tradition. It features seven strings and 24 fixed frets set on a long neck. It is considered the mother of all string instruments in Indian classical music.
Pandit Jasraj was a renowned exponent of which classical music tradition?
Correct Answer: B. Mewati Gharana of Hindustani Vocal
Pandit Jasraj was a legendary vocalist who brought the Mewati Gharana to the forefront of Indian classical music. He was known for his soulful renditions and innovations like the 'Jasrangi' jugalbandi. His career spanned over eight decades, earning him numerous national honors.