Chengila

The chengila, or cennala, is an Indian gong which helps the traditional singer or dancer keep time.[1]

Chengila
Singer Pathiyur with chengila
Percussion instrument
Other namesCennala
Classification Idiophone
Related instruments
Gong

Context and Playing Technique

The chengila is a percussion instrument that maintains a steady beat and provides musical background. The thick bell metal disc, which hangs by a strap looped around one wrist, is struck by a short wand held in the other hand. A ringing sound is produced when the chengila is struck when hanging freely; a flat tone is produced when it is struck while held against the forearm. [1]

Cultural Importance

In Kerala, a state in south-west India, the chengila is used in many different traditional art forms [2] including Chemmanakali, Kathakali, and Krishnanattam.[3]

References

  1. "Chengila". Online Highways LLC. Retrieved 2013-09-17.
  2. Manu, Meera. "Rustic Rhapsody". The New Indian Express. Retrieved 2013-09-17.
  3. "Kathalki Dance". Keralahistory. Archived from the original on 2013-10-02. Retrieved 2013-09-17.
This article is issued from Wikipedia. The text is licensed under Creative Commons - Attribution - Sharealike. Additional terms may apply for the media files.