Svara Types: Suddha Svaras MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz covers Class IX Carnatic Music (Melodic Instrument) (Code 032), Theory Unit 3. The topic focuses on Svara Types, specifically Suddha Svaras, including definitions and basic swara positions concepts. Answer the questions below to test your knowledge, then submit to check your score and download the PDF solution.
Overview of Svaras and Suddha Svaras
In Carnatic Music, the term Svara refers to a musical note. It is a sound that has a specific frequency and is pleasing to the ear. There are seven basic notes known as the Sapta Svaras: Shadjam (Sa), Rishabham (Ri), Gandharam (Ga), Madhyamam (Ma), Panchamam (Pa), Dhaivatam (Da), and Nishadam (Ni).
Key Concepts: Achala and Chala Svaras
- Achala Svaras (Fixed Notes): These notes do not change their position. They have only one variety. The Achala Svaras are Shadjam (Sa) and Panchamam (Pa).
- Chala Svaras (Variable Notes): The remaining five notes (Ri, Ga, Ma, Da, Ni) have variations in their pitch positions. These are called Vikriti Svaras.
The Concept of Suddha Svaras
Within the 12 Svarasthana system (the 12 semitones of an octave), the Chala Svaras take on specific names based on their position. The term Suddha generally denotes the lowest variety of that particular note, except in the case of Madhyamam.
| Svara | Suddha Variety Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rishabham (Ri) | Suddha Rishabham | The first variety of Ri. |
| Gandharam (Ga) | Suddha Gandharam | The first variety of Ga. |
| Madhyamam (Ma) | Suddha Madhyamam | The first variety of Ma. |
| Dhaivatam (Da) | Suddha Dhaivatam | The first variety of Da. |
| Nishadam (Ni) | Suddha Nishadam | The first variety of Ni. |
Quick Revision Points
- There are 7 basic notes and 12 distinct Svarasthanas in an octave.
- Sa and Pa are fixed (Achala).
- Ri, Ga, Ma, Da, and Ni are variable (Vikriti).
- Suddha Madhyamam is the lower variety of Ma; the higher variety is Prati Madhyamam.
Extra Practice Questions
- Name the two Achala Svaras.
- Which variety of Madhyamam is higher in pitch: Suddha or Prati?
- What is the full form of ‘Da’?
- How many total varieties of Rishabham exist in the 16-svara nomenclature (though only 3 positions in 12-svara system)?
- Is Suddha Rishabham higher or lower in pitch than Chatusruti Rishabham?
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