Notation Writing: Compositions MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This quiz covers Unit 5 of Class IX Hindustani Music Vocal (Code 034). It focuses on the topic “Notation Writing: Compositions,” specifically testing knowledge of the Bhatkhande Notation System used to write prescribed compositions (Drut Khayal). Click “Submit Quiz” to check your answers and “Download Answer PDF” to save your results.
Overview of Notation Writing
In Hindustani Classical Music, notation writing is the art of representing musical sounds and rhythms on paper. For Class 9 (Code 034), students are expected to know the Bhatkhande Notation System. This system uses specific symbols to denote Swaras (notes), Talas (rhythm cycles), and their placement within a composition like a Drut Khayal.
Key Symbols in Bhatkhande System
Understanding these symbols is crucial for writing notation correctly:
- Mandra Saptak (Lower Octave): Indicated by a dot below the note (e.g., Ni with a dot below).
- Madhya Saptak (Middle Octave): Written normally with no dots above or below.
- Taar Saptak (Higher Octave): Indicated by a dot above the note (e.g., Sa with a dot above).
- Komal Swara (Flat Note): Indicated by a horizontal line below the note (e.g., _Ga).
- Teevra Swara (Sharp Note): Indicated by a vertical line above the note (specifically for Ma).
- Avagraha (S): Used to indicate the elongation of a vowel or note for one beat.
Tala Notation Symbols
| Symbol | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| X | Sam (Sum) | The first beat of the Tala cycle. |
| 0 | Khali | The empty beat (wave of the hand). |
| 2, 3, 4 | Tali Numbers | Numbers indicating the beat where a clap occurs. |
| | | Vibhag | A vertical bar dividing the beats into sections. |
Writing Drut Khayal
When writing the notation of a Drut Khayal, the composition is divided into two main parts: the Sthayi and the Antara. The notation must clearly align the lyrics (Bol) with the Swaras (Notes) and the Matras (Beats) of the specific Tala (e.g., Teentala, Ektala).
Quick Revision List
- Shuddha Swara: No additional symbol.
- Meend: A curved line connecting two notes.
- Kan Swara: A small grace note written to the top-left of the main note.
- Structure: Always write Sthayi first, followed by Antara.
Extra Practice Questions
- What is the symbol for a pause or silence in some notation styles?
- How do you denote two notes played in one beat? (Answer: A crescent line under them).
- Which Tala is most commonly used for Drut Khayal in Class 9 syllabus? (Answer: Teentala or Ektala).
- How is the division of Vibhag shown? (Answer: Vertical bar).
- Where is the Sam usually placed in the notation grid? (Answer: Under the first beat).
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