Punjabi Bhangra music - OCRThe elements of music heard in Bhangra music

To highlight some of the features of Bhangra music, Dalvindor Singh's Yaar Da Viah will be examined as an example of the genre of music.

Melody and harmony

If asked to discuss the melodic devices, remember the following points:

• the melodies are conjunct and melismatic
• rather than whole-tone scales, Bhangra music will often be divided into microtones
• the lyrics are sung in the Punjabi language
• simple harmonies are played

Rhythm, metre and tempo

There are lots of examples of different time signatures and complex rhythms in Bhangra music. However, in Yaar Da Viah the song features:

• a chaal rhythm
• a time signature of 4/4
• a fast and steady tempo that is appropriate to dance to
• the percussion accents on first beat of the bar to emphasise the downbeat

Structure

Modern Bhangra music follows a similar form to popular music. This means that the following points need to be considered:

• the structure is usually in verse-chorus form
• Bhangra music is often instrumental with a sitar solo

Instrumentation and timbre

Bhangra music has embraced music technology as well as maintaining its traditional Indian roots. Many Bhangra songs feature:

• both lead female and male vocals
• traditional Indian instruments such as dhol, tumbi and sitar
• electronic instruments and contemporary music production techniques, eg synthesisers, drum machines and sampling

Texture and dynamics

The textures in Bhangra music can be complex and interesting. In the song Yaar Da Viah, the points to take note of inclucde:

• the texture is generally melody and accompaniment
• there is call and response between the lead vocalist and backing singers