An Overview of the Percussion Instrument Mridangam and its Rhythm

Abstract

The "Harmonious Tune and Rhythm" are music's two ears. Rhythm is what determines the time scale of musical compositions. If the rhythm is wrong, the controls of the music will not be in order. Rhythm is what keeps music under control. In classical music, pitch is equated with mother and rhythm is equated with father. Pitch instruments include string instruments, wind instruments. Rhythmic instruments include the drums, jal tarang, cymbals, and string instruments. Some great geniuses have said that rhythm is the life of music. Through ancient literature, we learn about the formation of leather musical instruments, their structure, and their use. Leather instruments were used in various stages of human life. Musical instruments such as Thannumai (one-headed drum), Muzhavu (tomtom-large drum), Matthalam (big drum) and Mridangam (percussion instrument) have been developed as primary instruments in classical music syllabuses, stage performances and percussion instruments. References to musical instruments such as Thannumai, Mozhavu, Matthalam, and Mridangam are found in literary texts such as' Tolkaappiyam, Silapathikaram, Pancha Marabu.’ In ancient times, tools were made from clay. At present, they make instruments out of glass, wood, and fibre wood. They form joints in the skins of animals. Rice and iron powder are used for the sound. In this period, the names of Tannumai, Muzhavu, and Matthalam are changed to Mritangam. Literary messages of Mridangam, thong used for tying, right side joint, left side joint, method of putting rice, trees used, and words used can be seen in this study.