The other instruments may join in as the kuzhal pattu progresses through several ragas and compositions.
Other instruments, such as viola, clarinet, double bass and occasionally even brass instruments joined in the late 19th century.
So sparing, pointed and inventive is the scoring, a listener always has the sense that instruments join in only when and as needed.
Consequently, when the instruments join forces for some big crescendo, the effect has real impact.
The opening march starts with less sound effects, instruments join in one by one more clearly, and an initial spoken countdown is absent.
The other instruments would then join in as the interlude built to a climax.
Later on, if the song's owner permits it, others sing along and other instruments join in.
Even more important, the instruments can join together on an equal footing.
Each section begins with a different solo voice, an instrument then joins it, and this pattern continues until all 8 are sounding.
As every instrument joined in, every nerve singing, as the music got so loud she screamed for her release, it came.