All questions of Musical Instruments & their Exponents for UPSC CSE Exam

Stringed Musical Instrument: Sitar
The correct answer to the question is option 'B - Sitar', as it is a stringed musical instrument.

Explanation:

What is a Sitar?
- The sitar is a traditional Indian musical instrument that belongs to the lute family.
- It is a plucked string instrument with a long neck and a gourd-shaped body.

Construction of Sitar:
- The sitar has between 18-21 strings, including melody strings, drone strings, and sympathetic strings.
- It also has movable frets, which allows the player to change the pitch of the notes.

Playing Technique:
- The sitar is played by plucking the strings with a wire plectrum called a mizrab.
- The player can produce a wide range of sounds by pressing the strings on the frets and using various techniques like meend (sliding) and gamak (ornamentation).

Usage in Indian Classical Music:
- The sitar is one of the most popular instruments in Indian classical music and is commonly used in performances of ragas.
- It has also gained popularity in Western music, with artists like Ravi Shankar introducing it to a global audience.
In conclusion, the sitar is a stringed musical instrument that holds a significant place in Indian classical music and has a unique and intricate playing technique.

Traditional Indian Wedding Processions and the Dholak
Traditional Indian weddings are known for their elaborate and vibrant celebrations, which often include processions with music and dancing. One of the key musical instruments used in these processions is the dholak.

Role of the Dholak in Indian Weddings
The dholak is a double-headed hand drum that is commonly used in traditional Indian music. It is played with two sticks, one of which is thinner and flexible, allowing the player to adjust the pitch of the drum by applying pressure. The dholak produces a deep and rhythmic sound that is perfect for creating a festive and celebratory atmosphere.

Use in Wedding Processions
During Indian wedding processions, the dholak is often played to accompany the groom as he makes his way to the wedding venue. The lively beats of the dholak help create a joyful and energetic mood, encouraging guests to dance and participate in the celebration. The rhythmic music of the dholak adds to the overall festive ambience of the wedding procession.

Symbolism and Tradition
In addition to its musical significance, the dholak also holds cultural and symbolic importance in Indian weddings. It is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the newlyweds, making it an essential part of the wedding festivities. The presence of the dholak in the wedding procession symbolizes joy, unity, and the beginning of a new chapter in the couple's life.
Overall, the dholak plays a vital role in traditional Indian wedding processions, adding rhythm, energy, and cultural significance to the celebrations.

Introduction:
The instrument known for its use in traditional Irish music is the Bodhrán. It is a traditional Irish frame drum that is widely used in Irish music to provide rhythmic accompaniment.

Origin and History:
The Bodhrán has a long history in Irish culture, dating back centuries. It was originally made from goatskin stretched over a wooden frame, but modern versions may use synthetic materials. The drum has been used in traditional Irish music for generations, adding a unique sound and rhythm to performances.

Construction and Design:
The Bodhrán typically has a shallow wooden frame with a goatskin head. It may feature a crossbar on the back to help support the drummer's hand while playing. The drumhead is struck with a beater called a tipper or cipín to produce a deep, resonant sound.

Playing Technique:
To play the Bodhrán, the drummer holds the drum vertically against their body and strikes the head with the tipper. The player can vary the tone and rhythm by adjusting the pressure and angle of the strike. Skilled Bodhrán players can create complex rhythms and accents, adding depth to traditional Irish music.

Role in Irish Music:
The Bodhrán plays a crucial role in traditional Irish music, providing a steady beat and driving rhythm for other musicians to follow. It is often used in sessions, ceilidhs, and performances of Irish folk music. The drum's distinctive sound is a hallmark of Irish musical traditions.
In conclusion, the Bodhrán is an essential instrument in traditional Irish music, adding a unique rhythmic element to performances and enhancing the overall sound of Irish musical traditions.