Friday, 24 April 2020

PARAI... The rhythm mixed in blood....


Music boosts Brain Chemicals by stimulating the formation of certain brain chemicals. Listening to music increases the neurotransmitter dopamine (brains motivation molecule). Scientific and psychological studies depict music can lift our moods, combat depression, improve blood flow, lower levels of stress-related hormones and ease pain. Can improve the outcomes for patients after surgery.

PARAI



Parai means “To speak or to communicate” is one of the oldest percussion instruments dating back to prehistoric times in South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Symbol of Tamil culture the instrument is used as a communication mechanism to convey messages to people and alert danger – mentioned in Tholkaapiam, Kurunthokai.

The parai is a frame drum of 35cm in diameter with shallow ring of wood (preferred – Neem) and stretched cow hide glues to it. It is played with two sticks – one long thin flat bamboo stick called as Sundu kuchi (approx 28cm) and a short thick called Adi kuchi (approx 18cm). it is tied by a strap over one shoulder and held vertically by pushing it towards the performers body and played entirely by 2 sticks.

The drummer will heat Parai in a bonfire holding it closely to remove moisture and tighten them to produce high pitch loud cracking sound. Played with dance and is called as Parai Aattam in occasions like funerals, childbirth and marriages.
Song of PARAI

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