Indian Music — Set 4
Arts & Culture · भारतीय संगीत · Questions 31–40 of 60
Which of the following is the most important component of the rhythmic structure in Carnatic music?
Correct Answer: C. Taladashapranas
The Taladashapranas refer to the ten vital elements of Taal in South Indian music. These elements define the duration, tempo, and pattern of a rhythmic cycle. The system is extremely complex and involves mathematical permutations of beats.
Which wind instrument is primarily made of wood and used extensively in South Indian temple and wedding music?
Correct Answer: C. Nadaswaram
The Nadaswaram is one of the world's loudest non-brass acoustic instruments and is considered highly auspicious. It is much larger and heavier than the North Indian Shehnai. It is traditionally accompanied by the 'Thavil', a powerful percussion instrument.
The 'Tarana' is a vocal style in Hindustani music that primarily uses which of the following?
Correct Answer: D. Meaningless syllables like 'nom', 'tom', 'ta', 'da'
A Tarana consists of specialized rhythmic syllables and is performed at a fast tempo. It focuses on the agility of the voice and the rhythmic patterns rather than the meaning of the words. It was famously developed by Amir Khusrau.
Which percussion instrument is a clay pot and is used as a rhythmic device in Carnatic music?
Correct Answer: D. Ghatam
The Ghatam is a specially baked earthen pot made of clay mixed with iron filings. It is played using the fingers, palms, and even the fingernails of both hands. It is one of the most ancient percussion instruments of the Indian subcontinent.
Which type of folk song from Punjab is characterized by its vigorous rhythm and is often performed during harvests?
Correct Answer: D. Bhangra
Bhangra music is an energetic folk style that originated among farmers celebrating the Baisakhi festival. It is traditionally driven by the beat of the 'Dhol', a large double-headed drum. Today, Bhangra has evolved into a global popular music genre.
What is the small, single-stringed instrument used by folk singers and Bauls in India?
Correct Answer: A. Ektara
The Ektara consists of a single string stretched over a resonator made of a gourd or coconut. It is used primarily as a drone or a simple rhythmic accompaniment for devotional and folk songs. It is a symbol of the simplicity of wandering mystics.
The 'Tappa' style of singing in Hindustani classical music originated from the songs of which community?
Correct Answer: C. Camel drivers of Northwest India
Tappa is a sophisticated vocal genre characterized by fast and intricate melodic turns and jumps. It evolved from the folk songs of camel riders and was refined into a classical form in the 18th century. It is mostly composed in the Punjabi language.
Which of the following is a devotional song style popular in Maharashtra, pioneered by saints like Namdev and Tukaram?
Correct Answer: A. Abhang
Abhangs are devotional hymns sung in praise of Lord Vitthala of Pandharpur. They are written in the Marathi language and emphasize social equality and love for the divine. These songs are an integral part of the Varkari tradition.
The 'Anupallavi' is a component of which musical form?
Correct Answer: B. Kriti in Carnatic music
A standard Carnatic Kriti consists of three parts: Pallavi (the chorus), Anupallavi (the second section), and Charanam (the stanza). The Anupallavi usually explores the upper octave and connects the Pallavi to the Charanam. This structure provides a balanced musical narrative.
Which musical instrument is the legendary Ustad Zakir Hussain famously associated with?
Correct Answer: C. Tabla
Ustad Zakir Hussain is a Tabla maestro known for his extraordinary speed and technical brilliance. He is a prominent figure in the world of fusion music as well as Indian classical music. He is the son of the legendary Tabla player Ustad Alla Rakha.