Term: Sangeetam MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This Class IX quiz covers Carnatic Music (Vocal) Code 031, Theory Unit II. The topic “Term: Sangeetam” includes the definition and components of music (concept-based). Test your knowledge below and click Submit to view your score and download the PDF answer key.
Understanding Sangeetam: Definition and Components
In Indian classical music, the term Sangeetam is a comprehensive concept that goes beyond just vocal singing. The word is derived from the Sanskrit roots “Sam” (together/good) and “Geet” (song). According to the ancient treatise Sangita Ratnakara written by Sarangadeva, Sangeetam is defined as the confluence of three art forms.
1. The Three Components of Sangeetam
The classic definition states: “Geetam Vadyam Tatha Nrityam Trayam Sangeetam Uchyate”. This means Sangeetam is composed of:
- Geetam: Vocal music or singing. It is considered the primal and most important aspect.
- Vadyam: Instrumental music. This accompanies vocal music or stands alone as a solo performance.
- Nrityam: Dance. Historically, dance was an integral part of music presentation, reflecting rhythm and emotion.
2. Fundamentals of Musical Sound
Music is based on sound, known as Nada. Nada is classified into two types:
- Ahata Nada: Struck sound. Sound produced by the friction or striking of two objects. This is the sound heard by human ears and used in music.
- Anahata Nada: Unstruck sound. A mystical sound perceived by yogis in deep meditation, not used in practical music.
3. Sruti and Swara
From Nada arises Sruti, and from Sruti arises Swara.
| Concept | Definition | Count in Carnatic Music |
|---|---|---|
| Sruti | The smallest audible interval of pitch that can be distinguished by the ear. | 22 Srutis |
| Swara | A musical note that is pleasing to the ear and has a specific frequency. | 7 Swaras (Sapta Swaras) |
4. Quick Revision List
- Sangeetam = Geetam + Vadyam + Nrityam.
- The source of all music is Nada (Sound).
- The 7 notes are Sa, Ri, Ga, Ma, Pa, Da, Ni.
- The full names are Shadjam, Rishabha, Gandhara, Madhyama, Panchama, Dhaivata, and Nishada.
5. Extra Practice Questions
- What is the Sanskrit root meaning of ‘Sam’ in Sangeetam?
Answer: Together or Good/Beautiful. - Who wrote Sangita Ratnakara?
Answer: Sarangadeva. - Which Swara does not have variations (Prakriti Swara)?
Answer: Sa (Shadjam) and Pa (Panchama). - What is the term for the ascending order of notes?
Answer: Arohana. - What is the term for the descending order of notes?
Answer: Avarohana.
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