Question

Which of the following statements accurately reflects key developments and classifications in Indian classical music?

• A. The Natya Shastra, compiled in the 13th century, focuses solely on musical instruments in Indian classical music.
• B. Anibaddha Sangeeta refers to structured compositions bound by rhythm and meaningful words, like dhrupad and prabandha.
• C. The Brihaddesi by Matanga, compiled between the 8th and 9th centuries AD, is a key text in Indian music theory.
• D. Tala, a contribution of Western classical music, refers to melodic improvisation without rhythmic cycles.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. The Brihaddesi by Matanga, compiled between the 8th and 9th centuries AD, is a key text in Indian music theory.

Indian classical music has been shaped by several significant influences, including the Rigveda, Yajurvedic chants, and Natya Shastra, which provides insights into scales, melodic forms, tala (rhythmic cycles), and musical instruments. Another key text is Matanga’s Brihaddesi, compiled between the 8th and 9th centuries AD. Additionally, Sangeeta Ratnakara, written by Sarangadeva in the 13th century, is an important work on music theory. Rhythmic and Structural Elements: One of India's unique contributions to musical rhythm is the tala, a cyclic arrangement of time units. Musical forms are broadly classified into two categories: Anibaddha Sangeeta – Unrestricted by meaningful words and tala, with alap being its purest form. Nibaddha Sangeeta – Structured compositions, including prabandha, a generic term for bound compositions, of which Jayadeva’s Gita Govinda (12th century) is a notable example. Another formal aspect of nibaddha sangeeta is dhrupad. Major Styles in Hindustani Music: Hindustani music features ten primary styles: Dhrupad, Dhamar, Hori, Khayal, Tappa, Chaturang, Ragasagar, Tarana, Sargam, and Thumri.