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

Which film features a soundtrack that incorporates elements of Indian Hindustani classical music?

  1. Umrao Jaan

  2. Devdas

  3. Jodhaa Akbar

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

Umrao Jaan (1981) features a soundtrack that includes elements of Indian Hindustani classical music, particularly in the song 'Dil Cheez Kya Hai', which showcases the intricate melodies and vocal techniques of Hindustani classical music.

Multiple choice

Which of the following folk songs is known for its message of environmental protection?

  1. Paani Re Paani

  2. Hawa Mein Udta Jaaye

  3. Zameen Se Aasman Tak

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

All of the songs listed address the issue of environmental degradation and call for action to protect the environment.

Multiple choice

What is the traditional music played during the Kalbelia dance?

  1. Pungi

  2. Dhol

  3. Tabla

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

The traditional music played during the Kalbelia dance is the pungi, a wind instrument.

Multiple choice

Which Indian musical instrument was introduced to Europe by the Arabs and became popular in the Middle Ages?

  1. The sitar

  2. The tabla

  3. The tanpura

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

The sitar was introduced to Europe by the Arabs in the Middle Ages and quickly became popular.

Multiple choice

Which Indian musical instrument was introduced to China by Buddhist monks and became popular in the Tang Dynasty?

  1. The sitar

  2. The tabla

  3. The tanpura

  4. The sarangi
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
Correct answer
Explanation

The pipa was introduced to China by Buddhist monks and became popular in the Tang Dynasty.

Multiple choice

Which Indian musical instrument was introduced to Japan by Buddhist monks and became popular in the Heian period?

  1. The sitar

  2. The tabla

  3. The tanpura

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

The biwa was introduced to Japan by Buddhist monks and became popular in the Heian period.

Multiple choice

Which Indian musical instrument was introduced to Africa by Indian traders and became popular in the Swahili Coast?

  1. The sitar

  2. The tabla

  3. The tanpura

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

The oud was introduced to Africa by Indian traders and became popular in the Swahili Coast.

Multiple choice

What is the name of the traditional musical instrument played by musicians on houseboats in Kerala?

  1. Tabla

  2. Sitar

  3. Veena

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

Mridangam, a traditional percussion instrument from South India, is played by musicians on houseboats in Kerala, adding to the serene and tranquil atmosphere.

Multiple choice

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

  1. Mridangam

  2. Tabla

  3. Chenda

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

The Chenda is a cylindrical drum with a goatskin head, played with two sticks.

Multiple choice

What is the primary string instrument used in Kathakali?

  1. Sitar

  2. Sarangi

  3. Veena

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

The Veena is a plucked string instrument with a long neck and a gourd-shaped body.

Multiple choice

Which instrument is known for its melodious sound and is often used for accompanying Kathakali performances?

  1. Flute

  2. Clarinet

  3. Saxophone

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

The Flute, also known as the Bansuri, is a bamboo wind instrument with a rich and soulful sound.

Multiple choice

What is the name of the cymbals used in Kathakali?

  1. Manjira

  2. Ghungroo

  3. Tabla

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

Manjira are small cymbals made of brass or bronze, played by striking them together.

Multiple choice

Which instrument is used to provide a rhythmic foundation in Kathakali performances?

  1. Mridangam

  2. Tabla

  3. Chenda

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

The Mridangam is a double-headed drum played with the hands, providing a steady beat.

Multiple choice

What is the name of the instrument that produces a deep, resonant sound and is often used to create a dramatic atmosphere?

  1. Chenda

  2. Veena

  3. Mridangam

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

The Mizhavu is a large cylindrical drum with a goatskin head, played with two sticks.

Multiple choice

Which instrument is known for its ability to produce a wide range of pitches and is often used for improvisational solos?

  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 with a distinctive sound, often used for expressing emotions.