L3 - Drones

Lesson Objectives

  • Identify a drone as a use of accompaniment

  • Explore musical instruments that are capable of playing a drone

  • Perform and compose drones

ICM - L3

Drone

  • The drone is a sustained note or collection of notes providing a foundation on which the songs are then performed.


  • Along with drum accompaniment and the “tala”, it is generally a constant feature of all Indian music and should be played continuously unless indicated otherwise.


  • The most commonly-used drone instrument is the large, lute-like “tambura”, which you can simulate using a guitar.


  • For a more continuous sound, Indians use the harmonium or hand-organ, swelling from soft to loud with the mood of the music.”