Strings of Tradition: String Instruments in Indian Music

The Sarangi is a bowed string instrument with a distinctive, rich sound. It is commonly used in Indian classical music, particularly in the Hindustani tradition.

The Sitar typically has seven main strings, each of which is tuned to a specific pitch. These strings are played with a wire plectrum called a Mizrab.

The Veena is a plucked string instrument with a long history in Indian music. It is commonly used in Carnatic music, a classical music tradition from South India.

The Santoor typically has 100 strings, arranged in groups of four. These strings are struck with two wooden mallets, producing a unique, resonant sound.

The Esraj is a fretless string instrument with a distinctive, nasal sound. It is commonly used in folk music and devotional music in various regions of India.

The Sarod typically has four main strings, each of which is tuned to a specific pitch. These strings are played with a wire plectrum called a Mizrab.

The Ravanahatha is a bowed string instrument with a unique, haunting sound. It is commonly used in Rajasthani folk music and is known for its intricate ornamentation and expressive playing style.

The Rabab typically has two main strings, which are tuned to a specific interval. These strings are played with a bow, producing a rich, resonant sound.

The Rubab is a plucked string instrument with a long history in Kashmiri folk music. It is known for its distinctive, twangy sound and is often used to accompany singing and storytelling.

The Dilruba typically has 18 strings, arranged in groups of three. These strings are played with a bow, producing a rich, mellow sound.

The Sarod is a fretted string instrument with a distinctive, warm sound. It is commonly used in Hindustani classical music and is known for its intricate ornamentation and expressive playing style.

The Mohan Veena typically has four main strings, each of which is tuned to a specific pitch. These strings are played with a wire plectrum called a Mizrab.

The Esraj is a bowed string instrument with a distinctive, nasal sound. It is commonly used in Bengali folk music and is known for its intricate ornamentation and expressive playing style.

The Taus typically has 14 strings, arranged in groups of four. These strings are played with a bow, producing a rich, resonant sound.

The Santoor is a plucked string instrument with a long history in Gujarati folk music. It is known for its distinctive, twangy sound and is often used to accompany singing and storytelling.