Punjabi Classical Music
Tappa is a light classical style which is declining in popularity. It is said that the tappa is based upon a style of folk music sung by camel drivers from Punjab, Rajasthan and Sind. However it began to be absorbed into the classical tradition in the 18th century. Tappa is characterised by a heavy reliance upon fast tans that are heavily ornamented with gamaks. These tans so peculiar to the tappa are known as gatkidi. Famous tappas are to be found from old musicians such as Hamdam and Mian Shori. However the Tapa is generally found in only a few light rags such as Kafi, Khammaj, and Sindhi Bhairavi.
The instrumental accompaniment to the tappa is typical of most north Indian classical music. This consists of harmonium (or sarangi), tanpura and tabla.
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