General Awareness ยท Social Science

Indian Music and Instruments

2,130 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

The mridangam is typically played in a:

  1. Sitting position

  2. Standing position

  3. Kneeling position

  4. Lying down position
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

The mridangam is usually played while sitting on the floor, with the drum placed between the legs.

Multiple choice

In the song "Saajanji Ghar Aaye", which instrument is prominently featured during the bridal entrance?

  1. Dhol

  2. Shehnai

  3. Tabla

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

The shehnai is a traditional Indian instrument known for its high-pitched, celebratory sound. It is often played during auspicious occasions, including bridal entrances.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a traditional musical instrument associated with the attire of the North?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Sarangi

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

Sitar, Tabla, and Sarangi are all traditional musical instruments associated with the attire of the North.

Multiple choice

Kathak, a captivating dance form from North India, is characterized by its intricate footwork and rhythmic storytelling. What is the primary instrument that accompanies Kathak performances?

  1. Tabla

  2. Sitar

  3. Sarangi

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

The tabla, a pair of hand drums, provides the rhythmic foundation for Kathak performances.

Multiple choice

Odissi, a graceful dance form from Odisha, is characterized by its lyrical movements and intricate hand gestures. What is the primary instrument that accompanies Odissi performances?

  1. Mridangam

  2. Pakhawaj

  3. Ghatam

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

The pakhawaj, a barrel-shaped drum, is the primary instrument used to accompany Odissi performances.

Multiple choice

What is the term for the system of musical notation used in Indian classical music?

  1. Svara-lipi

  2. Tabla-lipi

  3. Mridanga-lipi

  4. Veena-lipi
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

Svara-lipi is the term for the system of musical notation used in Indian classical music.

Multiple choice

What is the term for the drone instrument used in Indian classical music?

  1. Tanpura

  2. Tabla

  3. Mridanga

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

Tanpura is the term for the drone instrument used in Indian classical music.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is NOT a type of Indian musical instrument?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Mridanga

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

Sitar, Tabla, and Mridanga are all types of Indian musical instruments. Guitar is not a type of Indian musical instrument.

Multiple choice

Which of these instruments is commonly used to accompany Gujarati Bhajans?

  1. Harmonium

  2. Tabla

  3. Sitar

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

The harmonium is a popular instrument used to accompany Gujarati Bhajans, providing a rich and melodious backdrop for the vocals.

Multiple choice

Which instrument is known as the 'king of instruments' in Indian classical music?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Mridangam

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

The sitar is a stringed instrument that is played with a wire plectrum. It is known for its rich and resonant sound.

Multiple choice

What is the primary instrument used in Kathak dance?

  1. Tabla

  2. Sitar

  3. Mridangam

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

The tabla is a pair of hand drums that are played with the fingers and palms. It is the primary instrument used in Kathak dance.

Multiple choice

Which instrument is used to accompany Bharatanatyam dance?

  1. Mridangam

  2. Tabla

  3. Sitar

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

The mridangam is a barrel-shaped drum that is played with the hands. It is the primary instrument used to accompany Bharatanatyam dance.

Multiple choice

What is the name of the instrument that is played with a bow in Indian classical music?

  1. Sitar

  2. Sarangi

  3. Veena

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

The sarangi is a stringed instrument that is played with a bow. It is known for its plaintive and soulful sound.

Multiple choice

Which instrument is used to accompany Odissi dance?

  1. Pakhawaj

  2. Tabla

  3. Mridangam

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

The pakhawaj is a barrel-shaped drum that is played with the hands. It is the primary instrument used to accompany Odissi dance.

Multiple choice

What is the name of the instrument that is played by striking a metal plate with a wooden stick?

  1. Ghatam

  2. Tabla

  3. Mridangam

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

The manjira is a pair of small cymbals that are played by striking them together. It is used in many Indian classical dance forms.