Sollukattu: Adi Tala Varieties MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This quiz covers Class IX Carnatic Music (Percussion) Theory Unit 4. It focuses on the varieties and patterns of Sollukattu in Adi Tala, exploring rhythmic syllables, speeds, and structural variations. Test your knowledge, submit to see your score, and download the answer key PDF for revision.

Overview of Sollukattu in Adi Tala

Sollukattu refers to the spoken rhythmic syllables used in Carnatic percussion. In the context of Adi Tala, which is the most common rhythmic cycle consisting of 8 beats (Aksharas), Sollukattu forms the foundation for learning and performing percussion instruments like the Mridangam.

The structure of Adi Tala includes one Laghu (finger count plus beat) and two Dhrutams (beat plus wave). The syllables must align perfectly with these Angas across different speeds (Kalas) and gaits (Gatis/Nadais).

Key Varieties and Patterns

  • Fundamental Syllables: Basic phrases include “Ta”, “Di”, “Tom”, “Nam”, “Ta Ka”, “Ta Ki Ta”, and “Ta Ka Di Mi”.
  • Speed Variations (Kala):
    • Prathama Kala: First speed (1 unit per beat).
    • Dvitiya Kala: Second speed (2 units per beat).
    • Tritiya Kala: Third speed (4 units per beat).
  • Gati (Nadai) Varieties: The subdivision of each beat determines the Gati. Common varieties in Adi Tala include Chatusra (4), Tisra (3), Khanda (5), Misra (7), and Sankirna (9).

Common Sollukattu Patterns (Table)

Pattern Name Syllables (Example) Count per Beat
Chatusra Ta Ka Di Mi 4
Tisra Ta Ki Ta 3
Khanda Ta Ka Ta Ki Ta 5
Misra Ta Ki Ta Ta Ka Di Mi 7

Extra Practice Questions

  1. What is the total Akshara count of one cycle of Adi Tala? (Answer: 8)
  2. Which Angas constitute Adi Tala? (Answer: 1 Laghu, 2 Dhrutams)
  3. Identify the phrase for Khanda Gati. (Answer: Ta Ka Ta Ki Ta)
  4. If the first speed has 1 syllable per beat, how many are in the third speed? (Answer: 4)
  5. What is the term for spoken percussion syllables? (Answer: Konnakkol/Sollukattu)