General Awareness ยท Social Science

Indian Music and Instruments

2,230 Questions

Indian music and instruments encompass a rich variety of traditional percussion, string, and wind tools used across regional cultures. This collection features questions on folk drums, devotional instruments, and classical accompaniments. It is a crucial Art and Culture topic for SSC, UPSC, and State PSC exams.

Traditional folk drumsDevotional music instrumentsClassical dance accompanimentPercussion instrumentsRegional musical instruments

Indian Music and Instruments Questions

Multiple choice

Which of the following instruments is commonly used in Indian psychedelic music?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Tanpura

  4. All of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Sitar, tabla, and tanpura are all commonly used instruments in Indian psychedelic music.

Multiple choice

What is the role of the tabla in Indian psychedelic music?

  1. To provide the melody

  2. To provide the rhythm

  3. To provide the drone

  4. All of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The tabla is primarily used to provide the rhythm in Indian psychedelic music.

Multiple choice

Which tribal group is famous for its unique musical instruments, such as the 'ektara' (one-stringed instrument) and the 'dhol' (double-headed drum), which play a vital role in their cultural performances?

  1. Santhals

  2. Bhils

  3. Todas

  4. Nagas
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Santhals, an ethnic group primarily residing in eastern India, are known for their rich musical tradition. They have a variety of unique musical instruments, including the 'ektara' (one-stringed instrument) and the 'dhol' (double-headed drum), which are integral to their cultural performances and rituals.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a traditional Thang-Ta musical instrument?

  1. Pung

  2. Dhol

  3. Tabla

  4. Sitar
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Pung is a traditional Manipuri drum commonly used to accompany Thang-Ta performances and demonstrations.

Multiple choice

What is the primary instrument used by Manganiyar musicians?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Sarangi

  4. Dholak
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

The Sarangi, a bowed string instrument, is the heart of Manganiyar music, producing enchanting melodies and rhythms.

Multiple choice

Which instrument is commonly used to accompany Kalbelia dance performances?

  1. Tabla

  2. Dholak

  3. Sarangi

  4. Sitar
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The Dholak, a double-headed drum, is the primary instrument used to provide rhythmic accompaniment to Kalbelia dance performances.

Multiple choice

What is the primary instrument used in Langa music?

  1. Sarangi

  2. Tabla

  3. Dholak

  4. Harmonium
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

The Dholak is the main instrument used in Langa music, providing a steady beat and rhythmic foundation for the melodies.

Multiple choice

Which instrument is commonly used to accompany Thumri performances?

  1. Tabla

  2. Sarangi

  3. Sitar

  4. Harmonium
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

The Harmonium, a keyboard instrument, is frequently used to accompany Thumri performances, providing harmonic support and enhancing the melodies.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a percussion instrument used in Odissi?

  1. Pakhawaj

  2. Tabla

  3. Mridangam

  4. Ghatam
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Pakhawaj is a two-headed drum that is played with the hands. It is one of the most important percussion instruments used in Odissi.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a string instrument used in Odissi?

  1. Sitar

  2. Sarangi

  3. Veena

  4. Violin
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The Sarangi is a bowed string instrument that is played with the left hand. It is known for its rich and expressive sound.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a wind instrument used in Odissi?

  1. Bansuri

  2. Shehnai

  3. Nadaswaram

  4. Clarinet
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Bansuri is a bamboo flute that is played with the mouth. It is known for its sweet and melodious sound.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a metal instrument used in Odissi?

  1. Ghungroo

  2. Manjira

  3. Kartal

  4. Cymbal
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Ghungroo is a small metal bell that is tied to the ankles of the dancer. It produces a jingling sound when the dancer moves.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a wooden instrument used in Odissi?

  1. Danda

  2. Khol

  3. Mardala

  4. Tabla
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Danda is a wooden stick that is used by the dancer to create rhythmic patterns.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a combination of instruments used in Odissi?

  1. Panchavadyam

  2. Melam

  3. Chenda Melam

  4. Nadaswaram Panchavadyam
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Panchavadyam is a combination of five instruments: the Pakhawaj, the Sarangi, the Bansuri, the Ghungroo, and the Danda.

Multiple choice

Which of the following instruments is used to accompany the dancer in Odissi?

  1. Pakhawaj

  2. Tabla

  3. Mridangam

  4. Ghatam
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The Pakhawaj is the primary instrument used to accompany the dancer in Odissi. It is played by a musician who sits on the floor and uses his hands to strike the drum.