Exploring The World Of Indian Instruments: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

India is a land of rich cultural heritage, and music plays an integral part in it. Indian music is known for its diverse rhythms, melodies, and unique instruments. These instruments are an essential element of Indian classical and folk music. In this article, we will explore the world of Indian instruments, with a focus on the seven little words that define them.

The Seven Little Words

Indian instruments are classified into four categories: stringed, wind, percussion, and keyboard. The seven little words that describe them are Sitar, Sarod, Santoor, Shehnai, Tabla, Harmonium, and Flute. Let’s dive into the details of each of these instruments.

Stringed Instruments

Sitar

Sitar is one of the most popular Indian instruments worldwide. It is a plucked stringed instrument that has a long neck and a gourd-shaped resonating chamber. The sitar has 18-20 strings, of which seven main strings are played with a plectrum. The remaining strings are sympathetic strings that resonate with the played notes.

Sarod

Sarod is another popular stringed instrument that originated in Afghanistan and was later adopted in India. It has a long neck and a hollow wooden body covered with goatskin. The sarod has 25-26 strings, of which four main strings are played with a plectrum. The remaining strings are resonant strings that vibrate with the played notes.

Santoor

Santoor is a trapezoid-shaped stringed instrument that is played with two wooden sticks. It has 72-100 strings, which are struck with the sticks to produce a melody. The santoor is used extensively in Indian classical and folk music.

Wind Instruments

Shehnai

Shehnai is a double-reed wind instrument that is made of wood. It has a conical shape and produces a nasal sound. The shehnai is widely used in North Indian weddings and is played during processions.

Flute

Flute is a simple wind instrument that is made of bamboo. It has six finger holes and one blowing hole. The flute is played by blowing air into the blowing hole and covering different finger holes to produce different notes.

Percussion Instruments

Tabla

Tabla is a pair of drums that are used extensively in Indian classical music. It consists of a small drum called the tabla and a larger drum called the bayan. The tabla is played with the right hand, while the bayan is played with the left hand.

Keyboard Instruments

Harmonium

Harmonium is a keyboard instrument that is similar to a small organ. It has a small bellows that is operated by one hand and a keyboard that is played with the other hand. The harmonium produces a unique sound that is widely used in devotional music.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Indian instruments are an integral part of Indian culture and music. They have a rich history and a unique sound that sets them apart from other instruments. The seven little words that describe them are Sitar, Sarod, Santoor, Shehnai, Tabla, Harmonium, and Flute. Each instrument has its unique characteristics, and they are widely used in Indian classical and folk music. We hope this article has given you a comprehensive understanding of Indian instruments and their importance in Indian music.