What is the difference between the violin and the Rebab?

Reading Time: 5 minutesIntroduction Who is in the world who does not know violin? One of the most famous instruments is known to produce the most similar sounds to human vocal cords. Despite its magical sound and tone, the violin is not an easy-to-play instrument. However, it is not just the violin that is hard to play. As […]

Most Famous Iranian Setar Players

Reading Time: 5 minutesThe best Setar players   Although musical instruments are various and countless around the world, some of them are superior to others. It is not just the instrument’s competency that makes the difference, but the players’ influence on the fame of the instrument, too. Some of the most famous figures who have been effective in […]

Persian Santoor History and Origin: The Complete Story of Iran’s Ancient Hammered Dulcimer

Reading Time: 6 minutesWhat country is Santoor from? The presence of some similar instruments to Santoor all over the world makes it hard to identify the exact origin of it. According to Gifford (2001), Santur was first played by women in Iran before appearing in other countries such as Turkey and India. As we can see in the […]

Qanun Instrument Origin: History, Development, and Cultural Roots

Reading Time: 6 minutesQanun is a string instrument mostly popular in Middle Eastern countries. It is an instrument played solo or in groups in most parts of Iran, the Arab East, and Arab regions of North Africa. As years went by, the instrument became more popular in some parts of West Africa and Central Asia because of the […]

Tuning the Persian Tar: Traditional Methods, Dastgah Modal System, and Practical Approaches

Reading Time: 12 minutesIntroduction The Persian tar is a central instrument in Iranian classical music, renowned for its expressive range, microtonal flexibility, and deep cultural resonance. Its tuning is not merely a technical matter but a reflection of centuries-old modal traditions, improvisational practices, and the nuanced emotional palette of Persian music. At the heart of this system lies […]

Is learning to play Kamanche as hard as the violin?

Reading Time: 5 minutesLearning a new musical instrument is a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. While experts often recommend starting with percussion instruments, many beginners are captivated by the allure of string-based instruments such as the guitar and violin or even more exotic options like the Persian tar and Kamanche. In fact, two instruments that frequently intrigue aspiring musicians […]

What are the different types of tar instruments?

Reading Time: 4 minutesThe realm of string instruments is vast and diverse, with each instrument contributing its own distinctive tonal qualities and cultural heritage. Among these, the tar family stands out with its unique sound and design. Originating from the Middle East and Central Asia, tar instruments have evolved into several types, each with unique characteristics and history. […]

What is the difference between a dulcimer and a santoor

Reading Time: 5 minutesThe Middle East is renowned as the cradle of civilization. This region is not only the birthplace of some of the earliest civilizations, such as Mesopotamia, but it is also the origin of several musical instruments, like the lyre and harp, which have significantly influenced modern music. Museums dedicated to musical instruments, especially those showcasing […]