The Art of Folk Music
During the past century, Punjabi folk musicians used 87 instruments, 55 of which are still used today.[2] It is notable that the instruments used today serve a
function that exceeds musical necessity in that they are closely tied to Punjabi culture and heritage. The dhol, for example, continues to be popular because it
is important to special proceedings such as weddings and sporting events. Additionally, the popularity of certain instruments encourages people to continue
learning to play them; therefore, maintaining their relevance in Punjabi events. The boom of technology also threatened folk music by creating a new genre
of music known as Punjabi Pop, which mixed electronic and folk music. The following folk instruments are the most popular within Punjabi music.
Algoza
The algoza “consists of two joined beak flutes, one for melody, the second for drone” and the “flutes are either tied together or may be held together loosely with the hands
A continuous flow of air is necessary as the player blows into the two flutes simultaneously
Dhol
TResembles much of the construction of a drum. It is a two-sided drum of mango wood, 48 cm long and 38 cm wide and is played using two slightly curved sticks.
It is thought to have a much more significant value to the artisans such as the blacksmiths or the cobblers. It is usually played during neutral occasions and mostly by only men.
Chimta
The chimta are similar to tongs and consist of 122 cm long iron strip that is bent in half and adorned with an iron ring set. The small metal discs called chaene are “attached
on the inner side of the tongs so as to strike against each other like small cymbals when the arms of the chimta are struck”.