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

The Tabla, a pair of hand drums, plays a vital role in Indian classical music. Which tuning system is typically used for the Tabla?

  1. Just Intonation

  2. Equal Temperament

  3. Pythagorean

  4. None of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

The Tabla is not typically tuned using a specific tuning system like the other instruments mentioned. Instead, the Tabla's sound is primarily determined by the skill and technique of the player, who adjusts the tension of the drumheads to achieve the desired pitch and resonance.

Multiple choice

The Shehnai, a double-reed instrument, holds a significant place in Indian classical music and is often used for auspicious occasions. Which tuning system is typically employed for the Shehnai?

  1. Just Intonation

  2. Equal Temperament

  3. Pythagorean

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

The Shehnai is traditionally tuned using the Just Intonation system. This system ensures pure and consonant intervals between the notes, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. The Shehnai's piercing and evocative tone is well-suited for outdoor performances and ceremonial events.

Multiple choice

The Dholak, a two-headed hand drum, is commonly used in folk and popular music in India. Which tuning system is typically employed for the Dholak?

  1. Just Intonation

  2. Equal Temperament

  3. Pythagorean

  4. None of the above
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

The Dholak is not typically tuned using a specific tuning system like the other instruments mentioned. Instead, the Dholak's sound is primarily determined by the skill and technique of the player, who adjusts the tension of the drumheads to achieve the desired pitch and resonance.

Multiple choice

The Guitar, a versatile string instrument, has become an integral part of many genres of Indian music. Which tuning system is typically employed for the Guitar?

  1. Just Intonation

  2. Equal Temperament

  3. Pythagorean

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

The Guitar is typically tuned using the Equal Temperament system. This system divides the octave into 12 equal parts, making it easier to play in different keys and ensuring consistent intervals throughout the range of the instrument. The Guitar's versatility and wide range of sounds have made it a popular choice for both traditional and modern Indian music.

Multiple choice

Which musical instrument is traditionally used to accompany Mohiniyattam performances?

  1. Tabla

  2. Sitar

  3. Mridangam

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

The Veena, a stringed instrument, is the traditional accompaniment for Mohiniyattam performances.

Multiple choice

What is the traditional instrument used in Baul music?

  1. Ektara

  2. Tabla

  3. Sitar

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

The ektara is a one-stringed instrument that is considered the traditional instrument of Baul music. It is known for its simple construction and haunting sound.

Multiple choice

What is the name of the traditional Indian folk music genre that is known for its use of the tabla?

  1. A. Bhangra

  2. B. Kathakali

  3. C. Hindustani classical music

  4. D. Carnatic music
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

Bhangra is a traditional Indian folk music genre that is known for its use of the tabla. It is typically performed by men and is often used as a form of dance music.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is NOT a traditional musical instrument used in Kuchipudi performances?

  1. Mridangam

  2. Veena

  3. Tabla

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

While Mridangam, Veena, and Ghatam are traditional instruments used in Kuchipudi, Tabla is typically associated with Hindustani classical music.

Multiple choice

Which Indian musical instrument is known for its distinctive sound produced by striking a series of metal plates?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Sarod

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

The Santoor is a stringed musical instrument from Kashmir, known for its distinctive sound produced by striking a series of metal plates with wooden mallets.

Multiple choice

Which Indian musical instrument is known for its deep and resonant sound, often used in classical and folk music?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Sarod

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

The Sarod is a stringed musical instrument known for its deep and resonant sound. It is often used in classical and folk music performances and is known for its ability to produce intricate melodies and rhythmic patterns.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a major tribal musical instrument in India?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Dhol

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

Dhol is a major tribal musical instrument in India. It is a large cylindrical drum that is played with two sticks. Dhol is used in a variety of tribal dances and musical performances.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a major tribal musical instrument in India?

  1. Sitar

  2. Tabla

  3. Dhol

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

Dhol is a major tribal musical instrument in India. It is a large cylindrical drum that is played with two sticks. Dhol is used in a variety of tribal dances and musical performances.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is NOT a common musical instrument used in Mardani Khel?

  1. Dhol

  2. Tabla

  3. Harmonium

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

The sitar is not a common musical instrument used in Mardani Khel. The dhol, tabla, and harmonium are more commonly used to accompany the performance.

Multiple choice

Which of the following is a common musical instrument used in Mardani Khel?

  1. Tabla

  2. Harmonium

  3. Sitar

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

The tabla, harmonium, and sitar are all common musical instruments used in Mardani Khel. They are used to accompany the performance and create a lively atmosphere.

Multiple choice

What is the primary instrument used in Vedic music?

  1. Veena

  2. Sitar

  3. Tabla

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

The Veena, a stringed instrument, is considered the primary instrument in Vedic music and is associated with the goddess Saraswati, the patron of arts and knowledge.