Question

Describe the construction and playing techniques of an opted melodic instrument.

Hint:

The violin’s flexibility and range of gamakas make it ideal for Carnatic music accompaniment and solo performances.

Answer 1

Let us consider the Violin, one of the most widely used melodic instruments in Carnatic music. Construction of the Violin:

Made primarily of wood (spruce for the top, maple for the back and neck).
Has four strings tuned to the tonic and its perfect fifth in two octaves: Sa–Pa–Sa–Pa.
Features a fingerboard (no frets), bridge, tailpiece, tuning pegs, and a sound post.
The bow is strung with horsehair, used to glide across the strings to produce sound.
Playing Technique (Carnatic style):

Played in a seated posture with the scroll resting on the ankle and base on the chest.
Left hand presses the string to produce swaras, while right hand moves the bow.
Capable of intricate gamakas, microtones, and expressive slides.
Often used as an accompaniment and also as a solo instrument.
Unique Feature: The violin in Carnatic music adapts beautifully to the vocal style, making it a versatile melodic instrument.