Tala Description: Adi Tala (Single) MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This theory quiz for Class IX Carnatic Music (Vocal) covers Unit V, specifically focusing on the Structure, Aksharas, and basic Angas of Adi Tala. Test your knowledge, view the detailed explanation, and download your result PDF.
Overview of Adi Tala
Adi Tala is one of the most popular and frequently used talas in Carnatic Music. The term ‘Adi’ implies ‘first’ or ‘primary’. Technically, it is known as Chatusra Jati Triputa Tala. It is an 8-beat cycle commonly used for Varnas, Kritis, and Tillanas.
Structure and Angas
The structure of Adi Tala consists of three Angas (parts):
- 1 Laghu (I): Specifically Chatusra Jati Laghu (4 counts).
- 2 Drutams (O O): Each Drutam has 2 counts.
Therefore, the symbolic representation is I4 O O.
Calculation of Aksharas
| Anga | Symbol | Value (Aksharas) | Execution (Kriya) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laghu (Chatusra) | I4 | 4 | 1 Beat + 3 Finger Counts |
| Drutam 1 | O | 2 | 1 Beat + 1 Wave (Visarjita) |
| Drutam 2 | O | 2 | 1 Beat + 1 Wave (Visarjita) |
| Total | 8 | One Avartana |
Key Points for Revision
- Total Duration: 8 Aksharas (beats) per cycle (Avartana).
- Kriyas: The cycle involves beats at counts 1, 5, and 7. The counts 2, 3, 4 are finger counts; counts 6 and 8 are waves.
- Jati: The Laghu is Chatusra Jati (4 beats). If the Jati changes, the name of the Tala changes (e.g., Tisra Jati Triputa).
Practice Questions
- What is the duration of a Drutam in Adi Tala? (Ans: 2 Aksharas)
- How many beats (ghatas) are struck in one full Avartana of Adi Tala? (Ans: 3 beats – on 1st, 5th, 7th count)
- Which finger is counted last in the Laghu of Adi Tala? (Ans: Little finger, Ring finger, then Middle finger)
- If Adi Tala is rendered in 2 Kalai, how many matras are there? (Ans: 16 matras)
- What is the symbol for Adi Tala? (Ans: I4 O O)
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