World Music: Indian

Question 1

What scale is commonly used in Indian Music?

Answer 1

Raga scale

Question 2

What meter is commonly used in Indian Music?

Answer 2

4/4

Question 3

What texture is commonly used in Indian Music?

Answer 3

Melody and drone, often small ensemble

Question 4

Describe the melody of Indian Music (2)

Answer 4

Often improvised, using Raga scale

Question 5

Describe the rhythm of Indian Music

Answer 5

Use of Tala

Question 6

Describe the structure of Indian Music

Answer 6

Unmetered/free rhythm section followed by a metered section

Question 7

What are some instrumental effects commonly used in Indian Music? (4)

Answer 7

Ornamentation, pitch bending, portamento (meend), vibrato

Question 8

Sitar

Answer 8

Guitar like plucked string instrument, often uses pitch bending and portamento

Question 9

Bansuri

Answer 9

Side blown bamboo flute, often uses portamento, ornamentation and pitch bending

Question 10

Sarangi

Answer 10

Erhu like bowed string instrument, often uses ornamentation and portamento

Question 11

Tabla

Answer 11

Pair of pitched hand drums. Uses cyclic rhythmic pattern known as the Tala

Question 12

Describe the harmony of Indian Music

Answer 12

Unchanging throughout