Bhangra as fusion
Copyrighted materials: to view and download resources from this lesson, you’ll need to be in the UK and
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how modern bhangra is a fusion of different styles.
Key learning points
- Bhangra has continued to develop as a style, not only in the Punjab but also separately in the UK.
- Modern bhangra is a fusion of elements of traditional Punjabi music and Western popular music.
- A typical bhangra groove includes chaal on the dhol and a tumbi playing a simple, repeated pattern.
- Vocals in bhangra are influenced by Punjabi traditions. They are often microtonal, melismatic and 'bend' between notes.
Keywords
Dhol - A dhol is the key instrument of bhangra - a two-headed drum that plays the chaal.
Tumbi - A tumbi is a common instrument in bhangra. It is a single-stringed instrument that often plays a repeated riff.
Microtonal - If a melody is microtonal it uses notes in between the 12 notes of the Western scale. It uses intervals smaller than a semitone.
Melismatic - If singing is melismatic, it means that multiple notes are sung during one syllable of a word.
Common misconception
Bhangra is a style of music from South Asia.
Bhangra in its modern form is an example of musical fusion, between Punjabi traditional bhangra and Western popular styles of music.
Teacher tip
Where possible, encourage the use of authentic bhangra instruments. More advanced DAW software will have dhol and tumbi sounds, but where these aren't available use similar sounds if at all possible, ensuring that pupils are clear that tumbi and dhol are the typical instruments used in bhangra.
Equipment
DAW and/or class instruments
Licence
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Sign in to continue
Our content remains 100% free, but to access certain copyrighted materials, you'll need to sign in. This ensures we’re both staying within the rules.
P.S. Signing in also gives you more ways to make the most of Oak like unit downloads!
