Paper Code: 11/2015

Date of Test: 16th January 2015

Conducted by: Kerala Public Service Commission (Kerala PSC)

Post: Instrument Mechanic

Department: Collegiate Education – Music Colleges

Category: Previous Year Question Papers

 Overview

The Kerala PSC Instrument Mechanic Exam was conducted on 16th January 2015 for the Collegiate Education Department (Music Colleges) to fill vacancies for the role of Instrument Mechanic. This specialized position required candidates with practical knowledge of musical instruments, especially their repair, maintenance, and technical calibration.

The exam, identified with Paper Code 11/2015, was designed to assess both the technical expertise and general aptitude of candidates to ensure they could handle delicate and traditional musical instruments used in government music colleges across Kerala.

About the Role: Instrument Mechanic

An Instrument Mechanic in the Music Colleges Department is responsible for:

• Repairing and maintaining classical and modern musical instruments

• Handling acoustics and tuning adjustments

• Supporting faculty and students during music classes and performances

• Ensuring proper storage and handling of sensitive equipment

This role combines craftsmanship with deep understanding of musical traditions, particularly Carnatic and Hindustani music systems prevalent in Kerala’s government music colleges.

Exam Pattern

• Type of Exam: Objective (OMR-based Multiple Choice Questions)

• Total Questions: 100

• Total Marks: 100

• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Marking System: 1 mark for each correct answer, 1/3 mark deducted for each wrong answer

Topics Covered in the Exam

The exam paper was thoughtfully structured to test knowledge in the following areas:

Instrument Repair & Maintenance

• Basics of tuning string, percussion, and wind instruments

• Handling traditional Indian instruments (e.g., Veena, Mridangam, Tabla, Violin)

• Wood, leather, and metal work used in instrument construction

• Use of adhesives, tools, and polishing materials

 Music Theory & Acoustics

• Fundamentals of sound and vibration

• Tuning systems and tonal adjustments

• Acoustic properties of concert halls and classrooms

Mechanical & Electrical Basics

• Basic mechanical engineering principles

• Elementary electrical repairs related to electronic instruments (e.g., keyboards, sound systems)

General Knowledge & Current Affairs

• Kerala state’s cultural and educational history

• Important events, policies, and notable persons in music

• Government schemes related to arts and education

 English Language

• Grammar, sentence structure, and vocabulary

• Comprehension and usage

  Click the below link to download PDF format of Kerala PSC Previous Question Paper of  Instrument Mechanic (Music Colleges Department – Collegiate Education)