Flute as an instrument has a wide-ra impact on the player and the environment where it is being operated. Especially after the emergence of the COVID epidemic, where people are suffering from mental health disorders and respiratory problems, research shows that there has positive progress in health conditions. The flute is considered one of the most diverse instruments in music where just bamboo and cork can produce a diverse range of melodies. Considering the essence of this instrument, this blog shall cover the fundamental aspects of the flute. 

Flute as a dynamic instrument 

Flute refers to a woodwind instrument that produces sound from the flow of air across its openings. It is generally composed of bamboo or PVC pipes. India calls its version of the flute Basuri which has its historical significance. The earliest dates back over 35000 years ago when it was made up of bird bones and mammoth ivory.

Later bamboo became the fine and most popular raw material to make flutes. In addition, the first known flute was a three-holed instrument fashioned from a mammoth tusk that existed some 35,000 years ago. Excavated from a tomb in Jiahu, in the Central Chinese province of Henan, are bone flutes with five to eight holes each, crafted from the bones of red-crowned crane wings. They were approximately nine thousand years old. Chinese women were proficient flute musicians during the Song Dynasty (12th century). When it comes to flute history, they are the most ancient musical instruments. 

Types of flutes 

1. Concert flute:– It is a kind of flutes used in western concerts and orchestras. It is typically made of silver, nickel, or gold and has a range of about three octaves. 
2. Alto flute:– It is comparatively larger than concert flute and produces more deeper and mellow sound.  
3. Piccolo:- It is a smaller version of concert flute and produce a high pitched sound. 
4. Bass flute:- This flute is even larger than the alto  and produces a deep, rich sound. It is often used in flute choirs and contemporary music compositions. 
5. Ethnic flutes:- Every culture do modify this instrument in their own way. such as the bamboo flutes of Asia, the pan flutes of South America, and the Native American flutes, each offering distinctive sounds and playing techniques. 

Health benefits of playing flutes 

1. Promotes good posture:- Playing this instrument in a correct melody do require a straight posture to produce the sound. Thus it tend to improve the body posture of individual that enhances the further productivity 
2. Breathing efficacy:- Playing flutes tend to improve the lung capacity of an individual as it requires frequent breathing. Thus a part of ‘Pranayam’ is also there in this practice making it an efficient tool in having good respiratory health. However, we must care about the environment where we play this instrument . It must be pollution free. 
3. Promote finger dexterity:- When we need to use the dynamic finger patterns to play the flute, it enhances our finger dexterity. Also the visual and motor ability increases with further practice. 
4. Mental health:- Frequent breathing fulfils the regions of brain with oxygen which is considered as an immune for mental health conditions. The music produces through it is also a soothing one. 
5.  Improves the patience:- Learning flute is a long lasting activity which sometimes requires years. Thus it teaches us the to enhance our patience that will act as a tool to learn something new. 
6. Expands Cultural Awareness: The flute is used in various musical traditions around the world. Learning this instrument can introduce students to different cultures and musical styles, fostering a broader appreciation for global music. 

Tips to master flute for beginners: 

1. Start slow:- Beginners must not instantly jump to play the songs. Once must start with the fundamentals and should pursue a slow process. 
2. Use a metronome:– A metronome is an instrument which helps us to get idea about beats and timings of the notes. Thus it will provide the basic foundation to play the it.
3. Start with Alankars:- Playing saptak and alnkars must be the starting line for beginners. First they must master the hand dexterity and correct blowing , then they can move towards ear training. 
4. Maintain perseverance:- One must practice daily and consistently to master it. Discontinuity in the practice can alter the learning process. 

Thus in a nutshell we shall conclude that flute is one of the important instrument with diverse benefits. It will not only enhance the skill but will have the holistic development of the individual. 

References

Pexels, https://ijcrt.org/papers/IJCRT2309476.pdf

ausaf

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Rock ‘n’ Roll

Rock ‘n’ roll started in the 1950s as a rebellious and defiant musical genre, and its wardrobe reflected this attitude of nonconformity. Icons such as Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry popularized the leather jacket, tight trousers, and slicked-back hair, embodying rock ‘n’ roll culture’s rough masculinity and rebellious spirit. As the genre matured in the 1960s and 1970s, artists such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones adopted a more varied and experimental approach to design, embracing colorful psychedelic prints, bell-bottom trousers, and fringe jackets.

Furthermore, the androgynous style of artists such as David Bowie and Mick Jagger called into question traditional concepts of masculinity and femininity, blurring gender lines and influencing a generation of musicians and fashion fans to embrace fluidity and originality in their personal style. In essence, rock ‘n’ roll fashion was more than simply apparel; it was a visual symbol of a cultural revolution—a rejection of conformity and a celebration of uniqueness, innovation, and freedom. Rock ‘n’ roll attire continues to have an impact today, with leather jackets, skinny jeans, and retro-inspired outfits worn by musicians and fashion fans all over the world.

Hip-hop

Hip-hop began as a cultural movement in the Bronx in the 1970s, including music, dancing, art, and fashion. The fashion scene of hip-hop has always been known for its authenticity, originality, and streetwise attitude. Run-D.M.C. popularized Adidas tracksuits, Kangol hats, and gold chains, making sportswear a symbol of urban cool. As hip-hop acquired global success in the 1980s and 1990s, performers such as Tupac Shakur and Notorious B.I.G. adopted a more laid-back and casual style, complete with oversized hoodies, baggy trousers, and Timberland boots. Hip-hop continues to have an impact on fashion trends, with streetwear brands such as Supreme and Off-White teaming with singers and celebrities to create highly sought-after clothing lines.

Punk Music

Punk rock began in the 1970s as a raw and combative response to the era’s mainstream music and culture. Its fashion was distinguished by its DIY mentality, with artists and fans making their own outfits using safety pins, shredded textiles, and vivid prints. Leather jackets ripped trousers, and Mohawk hairstyles became popularized by punk icons such as Johnny Rotten and Sid Vicious, who embodied the anti-establishment attitude and DIY ethos of the genre. As punk matured in the 1980s and 1990s, bands such as The Clash and The Ramones introduced a more polished and styled version of punk fashion, including glam rock and new wave influences.

Pop Music

Pop music has long been associated with glitter, spectacle, and extravagance, and its wardrobe reflects these characteristics. Artists such as Madonna and Michael Jackson pushed the frontiers of fashion with their bold and dramatic ensembles, mixing haute couture, avant-garde design, and futuristic aesthetics into their performances. Madonna’s iconic cone bra and Jackson’s sequined glove became symbols of 1980s pop culture, generating numerous imitations and reinterpretations. As pop music evolved in the twenty-first century, performers such as Lady Gaga and Beyoncé continued to push the frontiers of fashion, incorporating vibrant colors, statement accessories, and avant-garde designs to create visually beautiful and unforgettable performances.

EDM

EDM has gained popularity recently, and its wardrobe mirrors the genre’s futuristic style. Daft Punk and Deadmau5 are recognized for their complex and otherworldly outfits, which incorporate LED lights, metallic materials, and sci-fi-inspired patterns. The dress at EDM events such as Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival is distinguished by brilliant colors, varied designs, and body-hugging styles, creating a visually immersive and immersive experience for guests. As EDM evolves and diversifies, its fashion will definitely push creative and innovative boundaries, reflecting the genre’s ever-changing soundscape and cultural effect.

In conclusion, the relationship between fashion and music is a dynamic and ever-changing blend of creativity and expression. From the street style of hip-hop to the rebellious spirit of rock ‘n’ roll, each music genre has its own fashion aesthetic that reflects its cultural and creative values. Musicians and artists have the ability to inspire, challenge, and redefine societal conventions through their bold and inventive dress choices, influencing the visual landscape of music and fashion for future generations. As music evolves and diversifies, so will its impact on fashion, opening up unlimited possibilities for creative collaboration and self-expression at the dynamic crossroads of music and style.

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21st century, the Era of ‘technology’

An era characterized by rapid expansion of liberalization, urbanization and globalization where technology plays a vital role in our day-to-day lives. Technology is supposed to make people more connected through social media, email, instant messaging, which have become important facts of our life.

However, Internet skeptics have argued that indirect online communication encourages isolation and prevents real friendship from building up. So is it true that technology is actually getting in the way of real socializing? Does technology makes us alone?

According to psychologist Jung,”Loneliness doesn’t come from being unable to communicate that seem important to oneself, or from holding certain views which other find inadmissible.” He predicted the state of human mind addicted to technology.

The alienation from face to face communication results with worsened social skills and unnatural behavior when “virtually socialized” people find themselves in real life situations.Technology and modernization have taken its pace and both are doing well at their own place. Again it is the humans who are getting into it and are on the verge of forgetting how to communicate with each other. The world today is so advance with so many social media, application where connecting is a blink of an eye, but then when it comes to a family trip, a get together connecting with one another in reality seems long gone. People are so busy adapting the development that they seem to forget themselves. In the days without technology and social media people used to manage to have contact with one another and they were connected by hearts. Now people are more concerned about what status and which selfie they will upload in social media rather than just enjoying the moment.Joint families living together in a small house were replaced by small families living in villas and they use cellphones to communicate one another within the same house. The life of the people has been trapped in those keypad emoticon like never before.

Music has become an important part of our life. Can we imagine life without music? Nowadays it is a common phenomenon where people use headphones to listen to music irrespective of the place and therefore having a conversation with the person sitting next to them has become quite different, in order to make everything right, we need to make a change starting today itself. A real good conversation with our beloved ones, our mother or father makes a huge difference in their lives as well as ours, they couldn’t be more happier than that.Some relationships are precious, don’t lose them on the way to reach the top of the world.

Today, we talk about success, money and power but we tend to forget to talk about the importance of human relationship.

Go get a cup of coffee with your favorite person and have a good conversation. Your existence is valued by someone, don’t just let it go in vain.

Amisha L Phukan | Content Writer | DU Times

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So, here’s presenting a list of Indie bands on who’s tunes you can dance the night off:

• Parvaaz

Parvaaz’s music is the perfect embodiment of the transition that young India is going through today. In perfect sync with the global standards, yet with an intrinsic texture that is unique to it. This quartet from Bangalore seamlessly weaves lyrics in Hindi, Urdu and Kashmiri into contemporary western riffs which impart an earthy queerness to their music.

Ought to listen: Their chartbuster debut EP Behosh . You are sure to be blown away.

Genre: Psychedelic Blues, Sufi-rock

Tune in for:  for their unique brand of Indian-meets-western music.

• Sulk Station

Sulk station came into being as a joint effort of duo Tanvi Rao and Rahul Giri. This duo from Bangalore creates the kind of music that ever so subtly allures you, immerses you completely and invariably leaves you wanting for more. Tanvi’s powerful yet restrained voice beautifully complimented with minimalist music production by Giri is sure to leave you mesmerised.

Ought to listen: Downlift and Bindya

Totally worth it

Genre: Electronic trip-hop/dubstep

Tune in for: Tanvi’s sensual vocals/ if minimalist music is your cup of tea.

• Begum

Begum is yet another such band that seems to hold a very promising future ahead of it. The band has deftly taken care of not boxing itself into a particular genre and has tried to explore myriad different themes in their debut LP.  Their music can be summed up as a kaleidoscope of psychedelia, tradition, reggae, rock and experimentalism.

Ought to listen: Debut LP Bagh

Genre: Dreamy, lo-fi experimental pop

Tune in for: the sheer amount of eclecticism this band stands for.

• Soulmate

This duo from Shillong holds the distinction of single-handedly infusing new blood into the blues in India. Tripti, the vocalist of this blues band is one of the most vibrant and charismatic voice to emerge out of the India in the past decade. So if Blues is what you are feeling like listening to today, Soulmate is the perfect fit for you.

Ought to listen: Shillong, their chartbuster EP

Genre: Blues rock

Tune in for: the magic spell she casts with her soulful renditions/ the most amazing and detailed guitar riffs hands-down in the whole India.

• Mink/Madboy

This duo is as different as cheese and chalk, both in their personas and the kind of music they draw inspiration from. But their poles-apart personalities are what lend a unique texture to their blend of music. It’s unpretentious, unique and honest, but mostly it is self-assured. So if funky and crazy is your kind, Mink/Madboy is a sure shot catch for you.

Ought to listen: Soulboy and Lemonade

Genre: Electro-Funk

Tune in for: To quell the deep-funk hunger of yours.

To bust the wallflower in you, because you simply cannot not dance whilst listening to their tracks.

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