NCERT Class 8 Arts Kriti: Chapter 6 — Musical Instruments
This chapter, "Instruments," from NCERT Class 8 Arts Kriti, delves into the science behind musical instruments. It explains that sound is produced by vibrations, which create sound waves traveling through a medium. Key concepts like frequency (number of vibrations per second, affecting pitch) and timbre (the 'tone' or 'colour' of sound, influenced by material, construction, and technique) are discussed. Resonance is highlighted as a phenomenon that amplifies sound, as seen in percussion instruments. The chapter also touches upon the craftsmanship involved in making musical instruments, emphasizing the use of scientific principles and the importance of instrument makers in preserving traditional art forms. It encourages students to explore the art and science of music.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Kriti |
| Chapter | Chapter 6 — Musical Instruments |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 317 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand that sound is produced by vibrations.
- Define and explain frequency and its relation to pitch.
- Define and explain timbre and its influencing factors.
- Understand the concept of resonance in sound amplification.
- Appreciate the role of instrument makers and scientific principles in music.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Vibration | A rapid back-and-forth movement that produces sound. |
| Sound waves | Disturbances that travel through a medium, carrying sound energy. |
| Frequency | The number of vibrations per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). |
| Pitch | The highness or lowness of a sound, determined by frequency. |
| Timbre | The unique quality or 'tone colour' of a sound. |
| Resonance | The amplification of sound through sympathetic vibrations. |
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Practice questions
- What causes sound? Answer: Sound is produced because of vibrations.
- What is frequency? Answer: Frequency is the number of vibrations per second.
- How does frequency affect the pitch of a sound? Answer: A faster vibration (higher frequency) produces a higher pitch of sound.
- What is timbre? Answer: Timbre refers to the 'tone' or 'colour' of the sound.
- How does resonance help in musical instruments? Answer: Through resonance, sound is amplified or made louder, for example, in the hollow body of a percussion instrument.
Frequently asked questions
What is the fundamental principle behind sound production?
Sound is produced because of vibrations. When an object vibrates, it creates sound waves.
How is frequency related to the sound we hear?
Frequency is the number of vibrations per second. A faster vibration (higher frequency) results in a higher pitch of sound.
What determines the timbre of a sound?
Timbre, or the 'tone' of a sound, varies with the material, construction, and playing technique of the instrument.
What role does resonance play in musical instruments?
Resonance amplifies sound, making it louder. This is often seen in the hollow bodies of percussion instruments.
Why are instrument makers important?
Instrument makers are essential for the survival of traditional art forms and use scientific principles in their craft.
Can music be considered both an art and a science?
Yes, music involves artistic expression and creativity, as well as scientific principles related to sound and instrument construction.
Related resources
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Topics covered
NCERT Class 8 Arts — Kriti — Chapter 6 — Musical Instruments. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.