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The Use of Music and Instruments in Bharatanatyam

Description: This quiz aims to assess your understanding of the use of music and instruments in Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form from India.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: bharatanatyam music instruments carnatic music
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In Bharatanatyam, which type of music is traditionally used?

  1. Hindustani Music

  2. Carnatic Music

  3. Folk Music

  4. Western Classical Music


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Carnatic Music is the traditional music system used in Bharatanatyam. It is a South Indian classical music form characterized by its intricate melodies, rhythmic patterns, and improvisational nature.

What is the primary instrument used to accompany Bharatanatyam performances?

  1. Tabla

  2. Sitar

  3. Mridangam

  4. Violin


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Mridangam is a double-headed drum that serves as the primary percussion instrument in Bharatanatyam. It is played with the hands and produces a rich, resonant sound that complements the dance movements.

Which instrument is known for its melodic and expressive qualities in Bharatanatyam?

  1. Veena

  2. Flute

  3. Violin

  4. Sarangi


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Violin, introduced to India during the British colonial period, has become an integral part of Bharatanatyam. Its ability to produce a wide range of melodies and emotions makes it a popular choice for accompanying the dance.

What is the role of the Nattuvangam in Bharatanatyam?

  1. Vocalist

  2. Dancer

  3. Flutist

  4. Conductor


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Nattuvangam is the conductor of the Bharatanatyam performance. They provide rhythmic guidance to the dancers, singers, and musicians, ensuring that all elements of the performance are synchronized.

Which instrument is used to create rhythmic patterns and accents in Bharatanatyam?

  1. Tabla

  2. Mridangam

  3. Ghatam

  4. Kanjira


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Kanjira is a small, frame drum with a single head. It is played with the hands and produces sharp, rhythmic sounds that accentuate the dance movements.

What is the purpose of the Jatiswaram in Bharatanatyam?

  1. To showcase the dancer's technical skill

  2. To introduce the main theme of the performance

  3. To provide a rhythmic foundation for the dance

  4. To conclude the performance


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Jatiswaram is a pure dance piece that showcases the dancer's technical prowess and rhythmic abilities. It is typically performed at the beginning of a Bharatanatyam recital.

Which instrument is known for its ability to produce a deep, resonant sound in Bharatanatyam?

  1. Mridangam

  2. Tabla

  3. Veena

  4. Ghatam


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Ghatam is a clay pot that is played by striking it with the fingers and palms. It produces a deep, resonant sound that adds a percussive element to the Bharatanatyam performance.

What is the role of the vocalist in Bharatanatyam?

  1. To provide rhythmic accompaniment

  2. To sing the lyrics of the song

  3. To narrate the story of the dance

  4. To provide melodic support


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The vocalist in Bharatanatyam sings the lyrics of the song that accompanies the dance. The lyrics often convey the story or theme of the performance.

Which instrument is used to create a drone or continuous background sound in Bharatanatyam?

  1. Violin

  2. Veena

  3. Sarangi

  4. Tambura


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Tambura is a string instrument with four or five strings. It is played by plucking the strings, creating a continuous drone that provides a harmonic foundation for the music.

What is the purpose of the Abhinaya in Bharatanatyam?

  1. To showcase the dancer's technical skill

  2. To convey emotions and expressions through gestures

  3. To provide rhythmic accompaniment

  4. To conclude the performance


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Abhinaya in Bharatanatyam refers to the expressive aspect of the dance, where the dancer uses gestures, facial expressions, and body movements to convey emotions, ideas, and stories.

Which instrument is known for its ability to produce a high-pitched, piercing sound in Bharatanatyam?

  1. Mridangam

  2. Tabla

  3. Veena

  4. Sarangi


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Sarangi is a bowed string instrument with a distinctive high-pitched sound. It is used to create a sense of tension and drama in Bharatanatyam performances.

What is the role of the Mridangam player in Bharatanatyam?

  1. To provide rhythmic accompaniment

  2. To sing the lyrics of the song

  3. To narrate the story of the dance

  4. To provide melodic support


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Mridangam player provides rhythmic accompaniment to the Bharatanatyam performance. They play the Mridangam, a double-headed drum, to create rhythmic patterns that complement the dance movements.

Which instrument is used to create a rhythmic cycle or Tala in Bharatanatyam?

  1. Tabla

  2. Mridangam

  3. Ghatam

  4. Kanjira


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Mridangam is used to create the rhythmic cycle or Tala in Bharatanatyam. The Mridangam player establishes the tempo and rhythmic patterns that guide the dancers and musicians throughout the performance.

What is the purpose of the Varnam in Bharatanatyam?

  1. To showcase the dancer's technical skill

  2. To introduce the main theme of the performance

  3. To provide a rhythmic foundation for the dance

  4. To conclude the performance


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Varnam is a complex and demanding dance piece that showcases the dancer's technical skill and artistry. It typically consists of three sections: Pallavi, Anupallavi, and Charanam.

Which instrument is known for its ability to produce a rich, mellow sound in Bharatanatyam?

  1. Mridangam

  2. Tabla

  3. Veena

  4. Sarangi


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Veena is a string instrument with a long history in Indian classical music. It is known for its rich, mellow sound and is often used to accompany Bharatanatyam performances.

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