General Knowledge On Tabla Drums

By Benedict Perez

Tabla is a very popular percussion instrument in South Asia originating as far as 300 years ago. The name came from the Arabic word tabl meaning drum. There are various versions of the instrument's origin but it is generally believed to have evolved from previously existing drums such as the dholak, naqqara, and pakhawa. This instrument is most commonly found in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

The modern version of the instrument is composed of a pair of drums. The dayan, which means right in India, is the smaller, wooden drum played with the right hand while the bayan, which is translated as left, is the larger drum with a metal body and played with the left hand.

One of the main differences of both drums is the size but their parts are mostly the same. The head of the drums, called the puri, is made up of goat hide. An extra ring of hide is laid over the head as well as on the bottom of the drums. These rings hold the lacings, or tasma, on the side of the drums, which in turn control the tension and pitch of the drums through a number of wooden cylindrical blocks called ghatta. These are placed between the body and the lacings. There is a black circle in the middle of the drum heads called syahi made up of gum, soot and iron fillings. The syahi is located in the center of the head, but in bayan, it is a little bit off to the side.

The characteristic bell-like timbre of the drums is made possible by the syahi. The tuning is different for each drum. The dayan is tuned to the tonic note of the vocalist or the instruments accompanying it. It has the higher pitch between the two. The bass tone of the instrument is produced by the larger bayan. The bayan's tune can be easily shifted with the position and pressure of the left wrist on the syahi. Thus it is not in monotone as in most percussion instruments and can cover a whole scale and also produce sliding notes.

Tabla is not easy to play because the principles of Indian music are a little different from the Western styles of music. The beats are conceptualized through mnemonic syllables called bol. Basic understanding of Indian rhythm conceptualization is essential for one to be able to play the instrument well.

Table can provide not only the beat and rhythm but also some melody, and just as the Western style has the beat, measure and cycle, so does the Indian style. The only main difference is that the latter focuses more on the cycle unlike the former which focuses on the measure and the beat. Timekeeping when playing the tabla is based on claps and waves. These claps and waves basically describe the measure of Indian music. It is important in the conceptualization and execution of the whole song as the other instruments also follow this rhythm as a guide. The cycle is constant but the syllables played throughout the song may vary depending on the player.

When the rhythm and melody of the tabla are executed perfectly, it produces a rich and exotic sound that can stand on its own as a song but will also do very well when combined with vocals and other instruments. Learning to play may take time and dedication and will require a good understanding of Indian musical concepts but the fruit of it is rewarding to one's artistic satisfaction. - 18758

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If you want to listen and feel the beat of ethnic musical instruments, you shuold try tabla drums. It has a distinct sound that creates music to hear. Or you may want to try oud.

Different Meanings And Uses Of The Bodhran

By Benedict Perez

There is a musical instrument called "bodhran" which has a universal purpose. It is a skin tray which is very popular among the Celtics and countries like Ireland, Brittany, Cornwall, Scotland and Wales. This musical skin tray has been in use in many different ways for thousands of years. Bodhrans are suitable separating chaff from grain which is known as winnowing. Winnowing using the skin tray is still a practice in some third world countries such as Africa and India.

The frame drum or bodhran appears like a sieve for those who are not familiar with this instrument. To some who are unfamiliar with this will simply see it as a skin tray. At any rate, this musical thing can be used as a sieve by punching holes in the skin. It practically looks like a sifter like that one being used for construction materials. This musical instrument falls under the percussion type and this is the favorite drum of the Irish people.

There are various sizes and designs of bodhrans. For inconvenience, most players opt for the smaller size since it is easier it is to bring along anywhere. The bodhran size ranges from 14" to 26" to suit to the preference of the player. Its sound is created by the use of the hand or by the tipper or both. For very fast rhythm and complex beat, the double-headed stick called as the "tipper" is used which is held in one hand.

The bodhrans are not only musical instruments but functional working tools as well. The name of this instrument is derived from the Irish word "bodhar" which means deaf. The name can also mean as "tray", "thundered", "deafening", and "dull-sounding". It is likewise referred to as the "frame drum" because of the manner it is made with the use of soft wood that can be easily bent and the use of animal skin for its frame cover. It also popularly known as the Irish or Celtic drum.

The drums are commonly associated with beating and loud sound. However, the bodhran is not like most drums for it plays a soft sound often giving an impression of dullness. It sounds deep and can be played in many styles ranging from the traditional Irish rhythm to the modern beat. You can likewise play with this instrument according to your personal style. The variations in sounds depend on the tapping on the skin or rim and in the movement of the hands.

Most of these drums are used for purely religious or cultural festivals. But in countries like Ireland, Spain, France and the Basque country these are musical instruments which have become an integral part of entertainment. It is only, however, in Ireland that the bodhran has attained its high level of sophistication.

In Ireland, the bodhran is used in religious and cultural festivals such as "The Wren Hunt". The festivity is about the hunting for a wren which is done by groups of people wearing costumes with blackened faces and go bring on parade the captured bird from house to house. During the parade the frame drum plays while people sing the ceremonial song.

The designs of this type of musical instrument feature the cross, animals and birds, spiral and knotwork. The knotwork is a very common design you can see for it signifies the human soul which is believed to a soul of divination and man's eternal spiritual growth. All these symbols bear significant meanings which are related to the rites or ceremonies involved using the bodhran. - 18758

About the Author:

If you want to listen and feel the beat of ethnic musical instruments, you shuold try bodhran. It has a distinct sound that creates music to hear. Or you may want to try celtic harps.

Music The Essential Part Of Your Life Style

By Mel Singer

What actually charms an individual? Certain people would be captivated by the nature's charisma; gorgeous buildings, some captivated by dresses and other fashion items, may captivate some. But majority of them in this world could be charmed by means of music. Yes indeed, music forms an important area of the woman's life since her giving birth. The sound made by small baby is in addition ,a type of music. It is the point that is loved none other but by the mom. This entire world would become as a nothing but a kind of dumb one with no build of sound. Some individuals think that the crooking sounds made by birds are a kind of noise. But in fact that they all are a type of a gift from god to us. Our view defines the whether it is a noise or a fascinating voice. Music has been life foundation for various music lovers. A good music should be efficient in changing the person mind and lessen the tensions.

Good deal to feel the charm:

Music as a matter of fact has been the lifestyle for many in this world. It has become as if an individual can't live without this medium. So they are in a need for music where they go. While they walk they take MP3,iPods players and so on. As they are on a go how they are in a position to encounter the real charm of the music? For this reason hi-fi systems can be accompanied the vehicles. Hi-fi systems are magnificently figured out components. It marked its presence in the late 1920's. The first fitted radio was German's Blaupunkt into the Stud baker in 1930. It was a good achievement then. Engineers truly felt celebrated about the outcome. Ever since then many technical developments have been encounter changing modifications in the stereo systems. Car stereos are very costly ones when it was initiated. At the moment the rates have come down. But unfortunately there is an opportunity that some people may cheat you. So bargaining to good result to reduce the cost of the stereo is an encouraged one by the analysts. So an excellent bargain should involve a strict talk and a kind mind to know the designs on the seller. Knowing about the marketplace rates of the music stereo systems is a must. All details concerned about the stereo systems need to be known by the individual who bargains.

Feel happy ultimately:

A decent bargain means not only a harsh, rough and resilient talk to the retailer but also a gentle heart to recognize other people feeling. The bargainer needs to make certain that he does not loses any money at the same time one must be certain that he is always talking fairly. As a consequence of only this type of an approach will take an individual to excellent position. Hence to have music on a walk is forever a good one to be experienced. But receiving for very high rate is not an optimistic one. That's why the contract should in a silence and calm manner that each one is happy at the end of the deal. - 18758

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Find the best Auto Hifi at bargain prices and much more information on Car Audio for the right car stereo.

8 Enjoyable Films To Consider And Enjoy On Your Times Off

By Tammie Orr

Some of the best movies of all time are the "oldies but goodies". If you wish to watch a terrific film tonight, here is some information on some of the best movies you may have never heard of. Check them out. Keep in mind you can download them almost instantly to your own computer in the luxury of your own home.

Cool film from the year 1986 "Good to Go". Unmemorable fare in reference to correspondent Garfunkel, who's framed on a rape-slaughter charge. Highlighted are the behaviors of such go-go groups as Redds & the Boys, Trouble Funk, Get rid of Brown & the Mind Scavengers, amid others. Cast includes Art Garfunkel, Robert Doqui, Harris Yulin, Reginald Daughtry, Richard Brooks, Hattie Winston, and Anjelica Huston.

Frequency, John Sullivan lost his dad thirty years back. He is still affected by the passing. Somehow with the use of his father's old ham radio, he can communicate with his dad, when his dad was still living. He warns his father of the fire that would kill him. This saves his father but sets off new events that now must be resolved, or John's mom will now die.

Company of Killers, Gunman (Saxon) performing for Kill Inc. gets to be target for his bosses and the city cops after a key witness is shot down. Bites off more than it can take care of. Cast includes Van Johnson, Ray Milland, John Saxon, Brian Kelly, Fritz Weaver, Clu Gulager, Susan Oliver, Diana Lynn, and Robert Middleton.

Your beloved movie, Happy Gilmore. Hockey player Happy Gilmore finds his slap shot power translates into 400 yard plus drives in golf. Needing money to help his grandma save her home, he is going to try pro golf. His putting is as horrific as his driving is good, so he has a lot to learn. Overcoming all odds, Happy wins the tour championship and now can save grandma's house.

China Nine Liberty 37, This is a puzzling Western in which railroad tycoons spare a gentleman from gallows in trade for killing another gunfighter. The gunfighter's girlfriend falls for the murderer and helps do his wicked work. Title refers to the signpost giving distance to 2 close-by towns. Cast includes Warren Oates, Fabio Testi, Jenny Agutter, and Sam Peckinpah.

Our most outstanding motion picture, Unlawful Entry, Michael and Karen Carr have had a disturbing experience. Someone broke into their house, and tried to rob them. When Officer Pete Davis shows up to assist, he appears to be a godsend. In the days to come they find officer Davis might be their most awful nightmare.

Gordon's War, When a Vietnam vet comes home to find his wife strung out on drugs, he trains a gentleman army to beat the pushers. Brilliant action, although gets lost toward the end. Cast includes Paul Winfield, Carl Lee, David Downing, and Tony Baron.

Hootenanny Hoot, Predictable comedy about college hootenanny show carried to TV is made endurable only by presence of Money and other nation/people actors. This is one of Sam Katzman's "characteristic" low-budget films. Cast includes Gene Nelson, Peter Breck, Joby Baker, Rita Lee, Pam Austin, Johnny Money, Sheb Wooley, The Brothers 4, and Judy Henske. - 18758

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On the assumption that you use a decent site to download movies from the internet it can be one of the greatest ways to get the movies that you want when you want them. Learn about free full length movie downloads. Downloading directly to your computer is a wonderful way to see the best new motion pictures.

10 Unusually Great Movies For Your Entertainment Satisfaction

By Corrine Collins

Every Hollywood producer has one aim in mind when they make a motion picture. They want to put out a movie that is a massive sensation that the public loves. A favorable story, some first-rate stars along with a couple of special effects and there you have the formula for a tremendous box-office victory. Or do you? Sometimes a motion picture will have all of the theoretical crucial aspects and it will still disappoint at the box office. There are no conclusive recipes to make a Hollywood epic. Select from the summaries below and download a excellent film to view tonight.

Ocean's Twelve - Three years ago Danny Ocean and his team of eleven had pulled of one of the most daring heists in modern times. Terry Benedict, the casino owner they swindled out of $160 million wants his money back, and knows who robbed him. This leads to another and more diabolical plot to deal with this new mess.

Mamma Mia - Sophie is about to get married. Her single mom has invited her two best all-time friends to the wedding. Sophie has invited three men from her mothers past, wanting to find her father, and have him walk her down the aisle. Old romances are reborn during the disordered day before the wedding.

Metropolitan - Conventional comedy, overflowing with sarcasm, is set throughout Christmas season, with hermit Clements drawn into small gang of friends, and out of his shell. Cast includes Carolyn Farina, Edward Clements, Christopher Eigeman, Taylor Nichols, Allison Rutledge-Parisi, Dylan Hundley, Isabel Gillies, Bryan Leder, Can Kempe, and Elizabeth Thompson.

Zoolander - Male model Derek Zoolander is hired to help stop a group of assassins who are posing as male models. He must somehow break into this private group. Making things even more demanding is Hansel, a new, up and coming model, who keeps screwing things up for Zoolander.

Deliverance - This is an brilliant re-creation of the Dickey novel of 4 Atlanta businessmen who get more than they can handle throughout a weekend canoe trip. McKinney and Coward are 2 of the most horrifying film scoundrels in history. The "Dueling Banjos" scene is very memorable. Film debuts of Beatty and Cox. James Dickey modified his own novel, and appears in the film as a sheriff. Ed O'Neill appears as a freeway watcher near end of film. Cast includes Cast includes Jon Voight, Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty, Ronny Cox, Billy McKinney, Herbert "Cowboy" Coward, and James Dickey.

No Down Payment - Current suburban soap opera of entangling complications of few young wedded twosomes. Cast includes Joanne Woodward, Jeffrey Hunter, Sheree North, Tony Randall, Cameron Mitchell, Patricia Owens, Barbara Hurry, and Pat Hingle.

Holiday in Mexico - Involving, well cast lyrical comedy of baby girl of ambassador dropping for familiar musician. Cast includes Walter Pidgeon, Ilona Massey, Roddy McDowall, Jose Iturbi, Xavier Cugat, and Jane Powell.

Rubin and Ed - Odd odyssey of 2 gentlemen on a mission to bury a deceased cat. Can they ever find the right spot? Glover once made a notorious appearance on David Letterman's Television show playing the identical personality he does here. Cast includes Crispin Glover, Howard Hesseman, Karen Black, Michael Green, and Brittney Lewis.

The Curse of the Cat People - Follow-up to Cat People builds astonishing setting in tale of poor little girl who brings up vision of Simon, her father's weird first wife. Bodeen Prudent's prompting debut and is additionally obtainable in pc-colored rendition Hex of the Red Altar. Cast includes Gunther von Fritsch, Robert Prudent, Simone Simon, Kent Smith, Jane Randolph, Ann Carter, and Julia Dean.

The General Died at Dawn - Fine play of Oriental intrigue, with mercenary Cooper falling in love with foreign agent Carroll when combating sinister warlord Tamiroff. Cast Gary Cooper, Madeleine Carroll, Akim Tamiroff, Dudley Digges, Porter Chamber, and William Frawley. - 18758

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In our time we have it really great. We can latest online movies. We can also view full-length, high-quality motion pictures for free on the internet.