Bharatanatyam dance style is an artistic blend of Emotions (bhava), Melody (Raaga) and Rhythm (Taalam). Originated from Tamil Nadu, Bharatantyam is one the major classical dance styles in India. The graceful tapestry of Melody and Rhythm has not only left its benchmark in India but also worldwide.The unique nature of Carnatic music enhances the beauty of this dance style, elevating the art form to greater heights.
In this blog, let’s embark on a Bharatanatyam journey and explore the musical instruments that infuse emotion and beauty into every performance.
Importance of Musical instruments in Bharatanatyam Dance
The Musical instruments in bharatanatyam dance style helps in complementing the dancer’s context, mood and movements during the recital. They enhance the dancer’s expression and navigate the rhythm to stay on point. As the orchestra has a combination of rhythm, wind, string instruments along with vocalist, the combination of all forms a melodious union during the performance. The musical instruments also aid the audience to experience the performance.
In a nutshell, The musical instruments establish and empower the mood, context and emotions of the overall performance.
Now we’ll dive into what all musical instruments are required in bharatanatyam dance performance. There are a few crucial instruments and some of them are just complimentary that enhance the orchestra.
Musical Instruments played in Bharatanatyam
Nattuvangam
Nattuvagam are the brass cymbals which are the most important musical instrument for a bharatanatyam dancer. They act as the navigator and help in controlling the tempo and rhythm of the dancer. In some other parts of India cymbals are used for different purposes like bhajans and kirtans as a complimentary rhythm instrument. However, in bharatanatyam, the dancer follows the rhythm and tempo of nattuvangam and performs the movements accordingly.
In almost all of the dance classes the teacher plays nattuvangam or Tattu Kazhi as a rhythm instrument so that the students can follow the beats.
Tattu Kazhi is another type of Rhythm instrument, the same as nattuvangam that helps the dancer to control the rhythm. It is a wooden rectangular block with a wooden stick and has a flat sound.
Mridangam
Mridangam is another important rhythmic instrument that adds power to the performance. It is also called the Dev Vaadyam (Musical Instrument of the Divine). It is a double sided drum which is played as a major rhythm instrument during the performance. The Mridangam compliments the movements of the dancer and helps in establishing the mood during the performance.
The lord of Mridangam is Lord Nadikeshwara (Lord Nandi Bull) in Indian Mythology. Lord Nandi is the Vaahan (Vehicle) of Lord Shiva who is the Lord of Dance.
Flute
Flute is one of the Wind Instruments and adds melody to the performance. A flute is a hollow Bamboo stick with a total seven holes, one is mouth piece and six are finger piece. The Lord Krishna is the God of Flute. Flute plays a beautiful blend especially for Lord krishna performances.
Violin
Violin is another Special Instrument used in Carnatic style of performances. It Compliments the Vocalist’s notes and adds a melody to the performance. This instrument helps in complementing and creating different moods and emotions during the performance. This String instrument establishes different moods like happiness, anger, tragedy and makes a wonderful impact on the performance.
A combination of violin and flute is the real identity of a South India based Classical dance performance.
Veena
Veena is another String instrument played during both Carnatic as well as Hindustani Vocal performance. It is one of the ancient instruments that originated in the 1700 BCs. Multiple gods are depicted playing this string instrument. It is often said that Ravana also played Veena.
Ankle Bells(Ghungroo)
They play an immense part for a dancer in the performance. The brass and delicate sound of ankle bells not only creates rhythm to the performance, but enhances the grace of the dancer. Wearing ankle bells also is one of the jewellery pieces that adds up the beauty of the dancer.
If you want to know more about costumes and jewelry in Bharatanatyam, Here’s a blog.
Other Instruments like Nadaswaram, Ghatam, Morchang(Morsing) also help in Enhancing the performance.
To sum up, the musical ensemble of artists, each playing instruments with distinctive features, comes together in perfect coordination to create a harmonious and melodious presentation.
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